Mediation is a process of dispute resolution that involves a neutral third party, known as a mediator, who helps the parties involved in the dispute to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. The mediator does not make decisions or impose solutions, but rather facilitates communication between the parties and helps them to identify and explore potential solutions. Mediation is often used in family law matters, such as divorce, child custody, and child support, as well as in civil disputes, such as contract disputes, landlord-tenant disputes, and neighbor disputes. Mediation is often less expensive and time-consuming than litigation, and it can be a more effective way to resolve disputes because it allows the parties to craft a solution that works for them, rather than having a judge impose a solution. Mediation also allows the parties to maintain control over the outcome of the dispute, rather than having a judge or jury decide the outcome. Additionally, mediation can help to preserve relationships between the parties, which can be especially important in family law matters.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a process that can be used to resolve disputes without the need for a court trial. ADR can be used to resolve disputes in a variety of areas, including family law, business disputes, and civil litigation. ADR can be used to resolve disputes quickly and efficiently, often at a fraction of the cost of a court trial. ADR can also be used to resolve disputes without the need for a lengthy trial process, which can be time consuming and expensive. Additionally, ADR can be used to resolve disputes without the need for a jury trial, which can be costly and time consuming. ADR can also be used to resolve disputes without the need for a lengthy discovery process, which can be costly and time consuming. Finally, ADR can be used to resolve disputes without the need for a lengthy appeals process, which can be costly and time consuming. ADR can provide a number of advantages over traditional court proceedings, including cost savings, speed, and privacy.