WHAT IS MEDIATION?

Mediation is a form of dispute resolution in which a neutral third party enables individuals to reach voluntary agreements:

Support the parties to communicate directly and honestly about each of their respective goals and interests, rather than their positions.
Guide each party to speak for his or herself in a respectful manner.
Encourage participation and negotiation in a way that represents the parties'"best selves".

Mediation also has other specific features.

Mediation is:

Voluntary — participation is freely chosen and can be terminated at any time by any participant.
Self-determined — decision-making authority always rests with the individuals.
Impartially led — mediators are neutral in facilitating conversation; any mediators' prior personal or professional relationship with either party must be specifically disclosed and accepted.
Confidential — information related to the content and process of mediation is kept confidential, except as required by law.
Based on Informed Consent — both parties understand the nature of the process and the implications of their decisions.

What do Mediators Do?

The mediator serves as:

Facilitator — keeping mediation on track and breaking stalemates.
Educator — providing information about conflict areas such as divorce and their impact on families, normal child development, family dynamics and family relationships.
Message carrier — sometimes serving as a "go-between".
Idea generator — offering creative options and brainstorming.
Translator — clarifying words and meanings to facilitate better understanding.
Agent of reality — helping to assess the workability of options.
Scribe — taking notes and writing down agreements.