In order to be successful in business, owners must be able to identify and plan for legal issues that may affect their interests. The use of Alternative Dispute Resolution methods is an effective way to resolve business disputes effectively and efficiently outside the courtroom. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) refers to a variety of processes that help parties resolve disputes without a trial. Typical ADR processes include mediation, arbitration, neutral evaluation, and collaborative law. This article addresses the ADR process of mediation.
Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process in which a trained neutral mediator facilitates communication between the parties and, without deciding the issues or imposing a solution on the parties, enables them to understand and to reach a mutually agreeable resolution to their dispute. It helps the parties understand and recognize their underlying needs, overlapping interests and areas of agreement. In Virginia the mediation process is voluntary and confidential.
This resolution process provides a low cost alternative that allows each party the opportunity to adequately and effectively assert their interests and develop their case. In the event a settlement is not reached, the parties retain their rights to proceed in litigation.
For more information, please contact an experienced attorney at the law firm of Paulson & Paulson, PLC.