A mediation lawyer in Northern Virginia could be a good alternative to litigation. But is a mediator right for your case? This depends on a few factors, so let’s discuss them.
What is a Mediator?
A mediation lawyer in Northern Virginia handles cases in a private, informal setting to resolve conflicts without legal judgment. The parties involved meet with a neutral third party (the mediator) to find a mutually agreeable solution to the conflict.
Parties are often represented by counsel in mediation. The parties are not forced to agree to a solution in mediation. Instead, the mediator facilitates communication to help the parties reach a mutual agreement.
Which Cases Can Be Mediated?
Generally speaking, mediation is available in most non-criminal matters. However, some non-violent criminal cases, like those involving harassment, often result in successful resolution during mediation. Additionally, claims that don’t involve a legal issue can also be resolved with mediation.
Common mediation cases involve conflict that arises in divorce, custody issues, disputes between family members, neighbors, employees, business partners, landlords and tenants, and labor unions and management. In fact, mediation is mandatory in some jurisdictions when it involves child custody or disagreements with neighbors. Cases in litigation such as personal injury, malpractice, breach of contract, and commercial disputes often benefit from mediation.
Benefits of a Mediation Lawyer Northern Virginia 
In many situations, mediation is preferable to filing a lawsuit. There are many advantages of mediation, including:
- Confidentiality
- Less expensive than a lawsuit
- Faster conflict resolution
- The parties communicate directly
- The parties decide on a resolution, not the judge or a jury
What to Expect During Mediation
In most mediation cases, you can expect the following:
First, the mediator will explain the rules and process involved in mediation. Then each party has the opportunity describe the dispute. At this point, the mediation lawyer will ask questions to gain a better understanding of the conflict.
Then, the mediator will meet privately with each party to understand that party’s side and understand possible solutions. After that, negation begins. The mediator will help parties reach an agreement and end the conflict.
Mediation Lawyer Fairfax VA
While mediation is not right for every case, it can greatly benefit many people. To find out if your case is eligible for mediation, please contact Cook, Craig, and Francuzenko today.
