Mediation & Arbitration

Areas of Practice

Mediation & Arbitration

By settling a controversy—instead of litigating and incurring courtroom and preparation expenses—you can negotiate the terms and conditions of an agreement through mediation.

Mediation is useful in resolving issues connected with family law or business disputes. In fact, almost any civil matter can benefit from systematic, structured negotiations guided by our experienced mediator. The resolution of difficult issues is left in your hands . . . rather than letting a judge or jury decide life’s most important matters for you.

Prior to going to hearing, mediation—guided by a registered mediator —may be an avenue you would like to or are required by law to consider. During mediation, you and the other party work through the issues of your case to reach an agreement and compromise that is acceptable to each side. This process is done in the presence of an impartial third party. That person is a lawyer—and one who is trained in the special skills of mediating.

The entire process is voluntary. A mediator cannot compel—and will not try to compel—either party to do anything. His or her role is confined to working with you to negotiate an agreement that is satisfactory to each participant. In many cases, this type of agreement is easier to enforce than a court order since both parties had a hand in structuring it.

Other Helpful Sites

Cornell Law

  • Legal Information Institute-Alternative Dispute Resolution. This overview describes such Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods as mediation, arbitration, early neutral evaluation and conciliation. Links to state and Federal statutes as well as judicial decisions related to ADR can be found on this site.

American Bar Association

  • American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution. This site offers information, educational programming and technical assistance in the field of dispute resolution. 1-202-662-1680.. This site explains the work of the American Arbitration Association, the organization that sets the standards for Alternative Dispute Resolution practices.
  • Center for Public Resources Institute for Dispute Resolution. The Center for Public Resources (CPR) has a wealth of Alternative Dispute Resolution materials, many of which are located on its website. Other CPR publications can be ordered through the website or by calling CPR at 1-212-949-6490.