Should I hire a lawyer? Most parties in mediation prefer to have a consulting attorney available to answer questions, clarify information, or provide another perspective. The consulting attorney can also review the agreement to be sure it accurately describes the agreement reached, is clear and enforceable.

Mediation is a cost-effective method of resolving a legal dispute in which a neutral professional assists the parties in settling their issues in a mutually respectful and satisfying manner. This approach can help you avoid the lengthy battle of trial, preserve personal relationships, and keep your information out of the public record.

Our goal as mediators is to help people to reach resolutions that each party can live with. We assist our clients in determining what they value most in an agreement, and help them to achieve those goals.

Generally, the parties share all information and collaborate to develop a "win-win" resolution. A mediator does not represent either party and the parties do not go to court. All agree that they will not go to court during the time they are working towards settlement.

Facts:

• Mediation usually provides a quicker, more cost effective and more satisfactory outcome than litigation.
  
  
• While a court trial may take months, or even years, to resolve a dispute, mediation can be paced and scheduled according to the needs of the parties involved.
  
  
• Mediation results in a higher likelihood of compliance with the agreement, since parties are more likely to comply with a solution that they helped to develop.
  
  
• Parties who mediate are more likely to enjoy a more cordial relationship in the future, which is particularly important in families with children.
  
  
• No party is forced to accept a solution that does not meet his or her interests and needs. The goal is to develop an agreement that comes as close as possible to a "win-win" agreement, each party receiving as much of what they seek as possible.