While it is possible to get into a legal dispute for any number of reasons, that does not mean that bringing a lawsuit is always the right choice. For many people who do not want to deal with the headache of litigation, mediation can offer an excellent alternative means for dispute resolution. But what exactly are the benefits of mediation, and why might you want to use it to help settle your legal dispute?
What is Mediation?
Mediation, put simply, is a process by which two people involved in some kind of dispute resolve their differences with the aid of a disinterested third party, known as a mediator. This process is substantially less formal than a lawsuit, with the two parties discussing their dispute and the mediator guiding the process. Unlike with a court, there are minimal limitations when it comes to things like evidence or testimony, allowing both sides to freely present their sides without the constraints of legal procedure.
How Does Mediation Work?
When both sides agree to mediate their dispute, they set up a meeting with the mediator, who discusses the situation and guides the conversation about the dispute. The mediator helps to settle conflict, maintain decorum, and guide the discussion towards a more productive end than might come about with normal negotiation. Ideally, at the end, both sides will come to an agreement that suits their respective needs.
What Are the Benefits of Mediation?
The primary benefit of choosing to resolve your dispute with mediation is that you avoid the time and expense of bringing a lawsuit. This process is also typically less formal and less stressful than a lawsuit, and typically gets resolved much more quickly than formal litigation. Moreover, even if the mediation fails, you still have the opportunity to sue, meaning you do not deprive yourself of your legal options by choosing to mediate your dispute.
Is Mediation Right For You?
Ultimately, the question of whether or not to seek out mediation depends on the nature of your dispute, as it is not necessarily appropriate for handling all types of cases. However, if it does work for your situation, it can be worth considering. That is why you should speak to a lawyer with experience acting as a mediator, who can advise you on what may work best for you.
If you have a legal issue and are seeking mediation, give the Law Office of Andrew Ross Sack a call. Andrew Ross Sack is a New York and New Jersey mediator who has considerable experience in handling the many aspects of employment and business law. To schedule a consultation with New York City/Long Island/Westchester mediator Andrew Ross Sack, call (516) 526-3319 or visit his contact page.
