Why mediation?

The mediation process is often successful in helping people find solutions, even when there is a long history of difficult and ineffective communication. The participants direct the outcome - the mediator facilitates their interaction. Participants are often amazed at the difference it makes to have a neutral third party present during their discussions.

Mediation is

• Private - the participants agree on what should be included in reports to others

• voluntary - participants choose to use the process

• self-directed - participants reach their own agreements

• confidential - only the people directly involved are present during the discussions

What does the mediator do?

• Training and experience equip the mediator to reduce obstacles to communication
• The mediator is an impartial third party
• The mediator will not make decisions or judgements or tell the participants what to do

And what do the participants do?

• They reach decisions and agreements if they choose to.
• The process helps them organize their thoughts and reach decisions about the issues at hand. Everyone has an opportunity to talk. The process works best if everyone also listens carefully to the others.

If I use mediation, do I have to "be nice"?

Mediation provides an opportunity for all participants to speak their mind. Sometimes that isn't "nice". Mediators are trained to work with the real emotions that accompany conflict.

How do I know the process will be fair?

Participants have the opportunity to establish guidelines that they can all agree to that they think will help make the process fair for their situation. Participants are not forced to agree to anything.

What if mediation doesn't work?

All other methods of conflict resolution remain available as options. Trying mediation does not eliminate using the court system or any other forum, but it can provide a much faster, much less expensive, and less inflammatory option to begin with.

What should I know about selecting a mediator?

The Association for Conflict Resolution recommends that you approach hiring a mediator just as you would any other professional, such as a physician, lawyer or accountant. Generally, you should consider the following information in selecting a mediator:

• The background, education and training of the mediator.
• The mediator's experience or knowledge in mediating your type of case.
• The mediator's fee schedule, including how the fees are to be divided among all parties.
• The mediator's membership in professional associations.
• Whether the mediator is certified (please note that certification is available only in certain states - Pennsylvania does not provide certification for mediators).

The Association for Conflict Resolution has information about selecting a mediator on their web site at www.acrnet.org/referrals/mediators.htm