By Attorney Christopher Strohbehn and Law Clerk Nathan Froemming

A civil case involves a conflict between you, or your company, and another person or company. Mediation is often the best way to resolve a civil conflict, since it can save time and money for both parties. Mediation has become a common way to resolve disputes between parties and is an alternative to asking a court to make a decision. It is important for any civil litigant to understand what mediation is, as well as some of its benefits and drawbacks. 

What Is Mediation?

Mediation is a cooperative problem-solving process in which a neutral professional guides the parties in clearly identifying the issues in dispute and coming to agreements that are in the best interests of all parties. The mediator will not make a final decision in the case. Rather, it is the parties’ responsibility to arrive at a settlement. Mediation can be used as a tool to successfully resolve disputes in a wide variety of areas—including divorce, business, employment, personal injury, malpractice, and many more.