Is mediation faster than going to trial?
General Mediation
Answer
Usually, but not always. A mediation session may be scheduled within weeks or months, while civil litigation can take much longer. If mediation succeeds, it may avoid extensive discovery, motions, trial preparation, and appeal. If it fails, the parties still continue with the case.
Reviewed by Wayne Lazarus on September 13, 2026.
Reviewed by Wayne H. Lazarus, attorney with more than 50 years’ experience, member of the State Bar of Georgia and The Florida Bar, and of Alternative Dispute Resolution sections.
This information is educational and is not legal advice.