Mediation is a method of dispute resolution that enables people to reach a mutually agreeable solution to their conflict with the assistance of a neutral mediator.

Mediators are not judges. They make no decision for the parties. A mediator helps parties realize and explain their needs, clarify issues, explore solutions and negotiate an agreement. The purpose of mediation is to help parties find a solution that will work for them.

Mediation is different from other settlement techniques in that: (1) the discussion is not limited to the strictly legal issues in the case, but expanded to include other needs and interests of the parties in order to broaden resolution options; (2) the mediator does not decide issues or evaluate the parties’ positions; and (3) because self-determination is fundamental, the parties themselves are actively involved.