Mediation

Mediation is a process, in which a neutral person, the mediator, helps people involved in a dispute to negotiate effectively with each other.
This practice promotes constructive and creative bargaining tactics brings the parties to closure, and ties down the settlement terms in writing. It is an area of expertise sanctioned by the American Bar Association to settle disputes in a manner that helps to alleviate the overburdened court system.
Confidentiality and sensitivity can be critical in certain disputes. Mediation allows for a more intimate and private setting than a court environment where personal information may get put on display. This is especially important for public figures and those whose reputations need to be carefully maintained. Open arbitration or litigation may lead to further difficult feelings between the disputing parties and creates further stress and hostility. The mediation process is an ideal alternative for privacy and equanimity in reaching a settlement.