Introduction to Mediation

Alternative Dispute Resolution Negotiation Negotiation Arbitration Arbitration Mediation Mediation

Negotiation The disputing parties talk to each other about their problem and try to reach a solution that is acceptable to them. The disputing parties talk to each other about their problem and try to reach a solution that is acceptable to them.

Arbitration The disputing parties agree to have another person listen to their arguments and make a decision for them. The disputing parties agree to have another person listen to their arguments and make a decision for them.

Mediation A person not involved in the dispute helps the disputing parties talk about their problem and settle their differences. A person not involved in the dispute helps the disputing parties talk about their problem and settle their differences.

The Benefits of Mediation Voluntary Voluntary Confidential Confidential Effective Effective Enforceable Enforceable –If settlement reached and written as legally binding contract Free Free –Through many community mediation programs

The Steps of Mediation Introduction Introduction Telling the story Telling the story Identifying positions and underlying interests Identifying positions and underlying interests Identifying alternative solutions Identifying alternative solutions Revising and discussing solutions Revising and discussing solutions Reaching an agreement Reaching an agreement