Mediation is a common form of alternative dispute resolution that involves a neutral mediator assisting the parties in reaching a settlement. The mediation process has several distinct advantages including: privacy, confidentiality and the opportunity to resolve the dispute in a non-litigious setting. It allows the parties to hear the positions of their opposing party, decide on areas of mutual consent and maintain a harmonious relationship once the matter concludes. Mediation can be used in a variety of legal disputes and contexts, but may be particularly suited to certain conflicts in light of the benefits it affords to participants.
Employment disputes. Disputes between a company and an employer are often ideally resolved through mediation. Mediation has become especially advantageous for employment disputes because of the significant rise in employment litigation that has resulted from expanded state and federal legislation dealing with employee rights. Employment disputes that are litigated in a courtroom setting can lead to costly jury awards and may also erode the goodwill of the business. The possibility of a lengthy and contentious litigation can cause not only economic hardship, but also significant disruption to business operations.
Business disputes. In conflicts involving breach of contract, real estate, construction and customer disputes, mediation may be preferable to courtroom litigation, particularly for small businesses. One of the predominant goals of mediation is to resolve disputes through the input of the parties in a manner that preserves the business relationship after the dispute has been resolved. Parties can focus on common goals and create innovative solutions. Unlike a difficult courtroom battle, mediation provides a realistic path for maintaining relationships between businesses and consumers, landlords and tenants and business partners once the matter is settled.
Family disputes. Mediation is advantageous to parties involved in divorce or custody disputes for reasons similar to those which make it a sensible option for business conflicts. In highly contentious situations involving sensitive issues, mediation has the potential to generate creative resolutions that can be used in future decision-making. Moreover, mediation may be more successful in preserving the stability of the relationship among family members, while maintaining privacy for the participants.
Contact Shane Coons at 949-333-0900 or visit his website at www.ShaneCoonsLaw.com to find out more about his practice.