Mediation Law Facts

• Mediation is changing law practice. It is the cheapest, lowest risk, and most under-utilized form of alternative dispute resolution. And the demand for it is rapidly growing.
  
  
• Mediation is defined as a process of assisted negotiations, and its key qualities are described. A good primer for those contemplating mediation.

If you decide to retain a mediator in Washington and want begin the Washington mediation process, contact one of our experienced Washington mediation lawyers today!

Many have traveled the adversarial road, and probably for many of the same reasons. Constant fighting, arguing and blaming in a marriage or similarly committed relationship generally leads to more of the same while dissolving it. Unfortunately, the consequences of continuing this behavior can be dramatic, including protracted litigation, escalating costs, a dramatically reduced standard of living and significant damage to your children’s emotional well-being.

• Mediating a case before a lawsuit is filed enables the parties to present their case to a mutually selected neutral person before any money is spent on litigation. The cost of mediating a case is minimal compared to the costs incurred through the life of a lawsuit.
  
  
• Finding and selecting a mediator can be easier if you follow some simple steps. In the best of circumstances, divorce is an uncomfortable process. Take the time to assure you have a mediator whom you like, respect and believe to be qualified to help both of you negotiate that equitable settlement
  
  
• Along with more complex contracts comes increased opportunities for contractual disputes. Most construction contracts today contain some form of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): a contractual means to resolve disputes without going into the classic courtroom setting.
  
  
• Many disputes have a prior history of an amicable relationship. This is especially true in business disputes. Thinking back on "better days" can create the atmosphere for productive dialogue. Use this tool to help prepare for mediation.
  
  
• As negotiations proceed, Parties sometimes reach an impasse -- often not due to overt conflict, but rather due to resistance to workable solutions or simply exhaustion of creativity. While the impasse might signal that the dispute is unresolvable in mediation, the mediator may believe that a workable agreement is still possible.

If you decide to retain a mediator in Washington and want begin the Washington mediation process, contact one of our experienced Washington mediation attorneys today!

	Did You Know?
	Mediation may not be the most appropriate avenue for resolution in all cases. For example, it may not be appropriate in cases where: A definitive or authoritative resolution of the matter is required; The matter involves or may bear upon significant questions of Government policy that require additional procedures before a final resolution may be made; Maintaining established policies that apply to many people is especially important; The matter significantly affects persons or groups who are not parties to the process; A full public record of the proceeding is important; or The agency must maintain continuing jurisdiction over the matter with authority to alter the disposition of the matter in light of changed circumstances.