Categories: Mediation

John Cook Launches Mediation Practice at Cook Craig & Francuzenko

John C. Cook, Founding Partner at Cook Craig & Francuzenko, PLLC, a full-service Fairfax law firm, has launched a new firm practice area in Mediation. Now the firm not only can represent clients in Mediation, as it has done for years, but can sponsor Mediations as well through a trained and experienced mediator.

How Does Alternative Dispute Resolution or Mediation Work?

Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR). It is a process of negotiation, through the use of a trained neutral party (mediator), as an alternative to trial before a court.

When Do People or Businesses Use Mediators?

The mediator is not a decision-maker. The mediator’s role is to use techniques to help parties communicate, understand each other’s position, and explore mutually-acceptable means to resolve a dispute.

Mediation can save parties significant time and money in resolving a dispute and allows parties to participate in finding a solution, as opposed to the litigation process, where a court makes the decision using a strict set of rules.

About Our Mediator, John C. Cook

Mr. Cook is certified by the Supreme Court of Virginia to receive mediation referrals from the General District Court. He is also a member of the Virginia Mediation Network. Prior to receiving his Virginia certification, Mr. Cook mediated cases for twelve years with the highly regarded District of Columbia Superior Court Multi-Door Resolution Center, focusing on personal injury and civil litigation.

His experience as a former member of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors provides him with a unique understanding of land use, HOA, and other community issues requiring negotiation. He is available to conduct private mediations on a wide range of subjects including workplace conflicts, collective bargaining negotiations, personal injury cases, land use disputes, and community and neighborhood issues.

Settling Disputes with Mediation

“Mediation is the predominant form of dispute resolution in the country today,” said Cook. Nationwide, only two percent of civil court cases ever reach a jury. The vast majority of cases settle. Mediation can help to settle difficult cases more quickly with significant cost savings to both sides. “We’re pleased to offer this service to businesses, individuals, and community organizations in Northern Virginia,” said Cook.