Florida Employment and Labor Law Attorney
ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION/ MEDIATION
Mediation Services
What is mediation?
Mediation sometimes referred to as alternative dispute resolution, is a way for people who are having a dispute to talk about their issues and concerns and to make decisions about the dispute with the help of another person (called a mediator). A mediator is not allowed to decide who is right or wrong or to tell you how to resolve your dispute. In mediation, you can try to find solutions that make sense to you and the other person in the dispute to resolve some or all of your concerns.
What if I don't come to an agreeement in mediation?
Mediation is used by the courts; additionally there are state and local agencies as well as individuals and corporations which use mediation. When it is used by the court, it is called a “court-ordered mediation.” If you are court ordered to mediation and you are unable to settle your differences, an "impasse" will be declared by the mediator and you will go back to court and the judge (or jury) will make a decision for you.
Advantages to Mediation
- Mediation provides an opportunity to talk with someone who is impartial.
- The issues in your dispute are decided by you, not by someone else (self-determination).
- What you say in mediation is confidential.
- The mediator can help you overcome obstacles to communication with the other person or party in your dispute.
- Mediation agreements are enforceable.
- A mediated agreement allows you and the other person(s) or parties to reach flexible solutions to your dispute.