Mediation is a conflict resolution process that is an alternative to litigation. It is a voluntary, private process involving a third party who assists the conflicting parties to come to an acceptable solution. Mediation is becoming more popular, and is often rated as a positive experience even by parties who may not come to an agreement through the process. If one party would like to try mediation, the Mediation Center can contact the other party and explain to them the benefits of mediation in an effort to bring them to the table.
If you are interested in mediation, please contact the Dispute Resolution Center of Central Michigan at (517) 485-2274 or drccm@tds.net, or drop by their office at 229 North Pine, Lansing, MI 48933.
Some additional benefits of mediation include:
- Mediation is often faster and more economical (CHEAPER) than litigation.
- Mediation is the least intrusive form of third-party involvement in a dispute. Parties retain control over vital decisions.
- Outcomes are tailored to the needs, interests, priorities and preferences of the parties. This increases the possibility of a “win-win” result.
- Because parties shape their own resolution, and because mediators have a duty to ensure that agreements are durable, the parties are usually more satisfied with the outcome and more willing to comply than with court judgments.
- The process empowers disputants as they learn to understand both sides of a dispute more fully and gain an understanding of the resolution process. The participants control over the outcomes is also empowering.
- Since the process if confidential, parties can keep their issues private.
- The process may improve (and at least should not further damage) the relationship between the parties.