What is mediation?
Transcript
Mediation is a process used to resolve disputes either before or after a lawsuit is filed. A mutual third party, usually an attorney experienced in the area, or a retired judge, serves as a mediator to help the parties resolve their dispute without the need for a court to determine their issues.
If the mediation is successful, then a mediated settlement agreement is executed by the parties. It is possible to resolve some issues at mediation, and not others. In that event, the parties can enter into a partial mediation agreement, narrowing the issues that a court must determine.
In most counties, attending mediation is a prerequisite to scheduling any hearing before the court.