Shawn Gatto, Esquire, Certified in Mediation and Conflict Resolution

What is mediation?

Mediation is the process whereby two parties voluntarily agree to meet with a neutral facilitator (a certified mediator) in a neutral locale in order to discuss conflicts, difficulties or disputes and collaborate to come to a mutually agreed upon resolution.  It helps people to talk through issues and come to a peaceful resolution of conflict without having to go to court.

What are the benefits of mediation?

Mediation has many advantages:

• There is a high success rate of agreement
• Participants are more likely to adhere to an agreement they have created
• It is less expensive than going to court
• Cases are heard more quickly as there is no court document to content with
• Mediation sessions take less time than going to court
• Mediation is flexible as it is scheduled to your convenience
• Participants are more likely to feel satisfied with the outcome
• It is confidential and private

What does the mediator do?

• Remains neutral and impartial
• Facilitates the process
• Helps participants reach a mutually satisfactory agreement
• Helps participants improve their communication with each other

What does the mediator not do?

• The mediator does not give legal advice

What kind of cases does a mediator handle?

• Employer and Employee
• Neighbor and Neighbor
• Business/consumer
• Interpersonal relationships
• Organizational conflict
• Cross Cultural Conflict