Mediation
Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) is a method of resolving legal disputes that allows the parties to resolve their disputes without going to court. It provides a less formal and more expeditious way of reaching a resolution, and is often significantly less expensive than going to trial. Dispute resolution methods include arbitration and mediation.
Mediation is the less formal ADR mechanism. It can be a voluntary process between the parties, or ordered by a judge as an alternative to proceeding with the trial. Unlike arbitration and litigation, mediation is confidential, and the mediator, a neutral third party, does not actually issue a binding decision in the matter. The mediator simply facilitates discussion between the two disputing parties and assists them in resolving the dispute by providing a forum to communicate openly.
Mediation has many benefits over litigation. Litigation frequently takes a long time. If the case goes to trial, it can be a year or more before a final verdict is reached. Mediation is usually much faster than litigation as there is no waiting for a court date. Because the parties are working together to reach an agreeable outcome, both parties are more likely to leave satisfied because they have agreed upon it; towards that end, parties who have reached their own agreement are more likely to comply with the terms. Court trial verdicts generally only address the legal issues; however, in mediation, other non-legal issues can be addressed and resolved. Mediation is not without its drawbacks. If the parties cannot resolve their dispute through mediation, they may have to ultimately proceed to trial to obtain a resolution.
Samuel Hill, Brian Turner and Michael Quillen are certified mediators with extensive experience as trial attorneys, representing both plaintiffs and defendants. Additionally, Mr. Turner is a trained domestic relations/family law mediator. Having successfully represented both plaintiffs and defendants, the attorneys are uniquely qualified as neutrals; they are able to understand both parties' perspectives and offer insight into each party's position. Having successfully litigated cases involving complex issues in a variety of areas of law, they are able to quickly understand the facts and comprehend the law even in the most complicated situations.
The law firm understands that every case is unique and every client is different. They invest the necessary time to prepare for each mediation and provide the appropriate environment to facilitate a settlement. During the mediation, they work diligently to assist both parties in developing a realistic assessment of their position, and assist the attorneys in providing appropriate, effective guidance to their clients while they pursue their settlement options.
If you are seeking an experienced mediator who will approach your case with fairness and complete neutrality, and who is prepared and persistent, contact the mediation lawyers of HILL | TURNER LLC today.
