The Top 10 Benefits Of Using Mediation For Dispute Resolution
Mediation is an effective alternative to settling disputes through the court system.
With the assistance of a neutral third-party mediator, the parties involved can find a mutually acceptable solution.
Mediation is commonly recommended or required in divorce and financial disputes between individuals and businesses. It can also determine the allocation of legal fees if a lawsuit becomes necessary.
This article highlights the top 10 benefits of using mediation to resolve conflicts. So, let’s dive right in…
1. No Stress
If you do not want to confront the opposing party in court, you can use mediation as the perfect method to find a middle ground. Since all the involved parties are connected through a neutral mediator, they can find support and put forward their needs without going through a court trial. This way, the parties won’t have to suffer from any amount of stress.
2. Enhanced Control
Mediation is often a preferred dispute resolution method because it gives parties more control over the outcome.
They can negotiate and find a solution that works for both of them, resulting in an outcome tailored to their specific needs and interests.
Furthermore, the informal mediation setting reduces stress and increases the chances of a successful resolution by allowing parties to communicate honestly and openly, fostering trust.
3. Less Expenditure
One of the obvious benefits of getting involved in the mediation process is reduced legal costs. Whenever you start a legal proceeding, you have to pay your lawyer for their advice and support.
Moreover, court fees can quickly add up, and you might end up spending a lot of money on a legal case. Therefore, getting involved in conflict resolution through mediation can save you a lot of money in legal proceedings.
4. Quick and Convenient
Whenever a legal case is taken to court, it assigns hearing dates according to the availability of judges. However, in the case of mediation, mediation sessions can begin as soon as both parties are available for discussion. Even if being physically present is impossible for either one or both parties, the mediation session can take place entirely online.
5. Shuttle Mediation
Shuttle mediation is one of the safest types of mediation you can choose if you feel uncomfortable sitting next to your ex-partner.
In this type of mediation, you do not need to be in the same room as your ex-partner, and the mediator can shuttle between you.
So, in destructive conflicts where physical assault might be possible, shuttle mediation opens the doors to discussion and reaching an agreement. Moreover, it can stop bullying and ensure the rights of all the parties involved in the process.
6. Flexibility
One of the best things about mediation is that it is flexible. It has no time frame, and you can go into mediation with someone whenever you feel the need.
For example, if issues arise between you and your ex-partner after a few years of separation, you can request a mediator to help you sort out your issues without making direct contact with your ex-partner.
7. Sped-Up Process
You can involve a mediator immediately when you need to start the mediation process.
On the other hand, if the parties decide to settle their dispute in court, there might be delayed hearings, which further complicate the issues, especially in the case of family law.
If you want your disputes settled sooner, consider mediation as an option for dispute resolution.
8. Easy Follow-Up
As the mediation continues, the mediator will prepare relevant documents to properly document everything said and agreed upon in the meetings.
After the discussion, the parties can reflect on these documents and draw a suitable conclusion.
9. Not- Mandatory
While mediation is always the best option, it is not mandatory. This means both parties must agree that they can go into mediation for the process to start.
During the mediation process, if one or both parties think the process isn’t working for them, they can easily take a step back and end it.
10. Open Discussion
Since the mediation process helps both parties interact with one another, they can settle lots of disputes at once. For example, a separated couple can discuss child custody and financial matters in the same mediation session.
Both parties can talk to one another and decide to settle even the smallest of disputes without going to court, all in the presence of a mediator.
If you feel confident about going into mediation with the opposing party, you should find a suitable mediator and attempt to start the process. Mediation is the best way forward, as it does not involve court proceedings and hefty legal fees.
