Maryland Mediation
By Stuart H.
Grozbean
WHAT IS MEDIATION?
Mediation is a voluntary dispute resolution process in which a neutral
third person ( a "Mediator") meets with the parties, and assists them in
reaching a settlement of their dispute. A mediator will work with both
parties to obtain a global resolution of all issues. Our mediators are
seasoned professionals with have conducted mediations and participated
in mediations to understand all sides of the process.
HOW LONG WILL MEDIATION TAKE?
There is no set time on how long mediation will take. Mediation is task
oriented with a goal of reaching agreement. This agreement may be
reached in a very short time in situations where mediating parties are
already at a very high level of agreement and are able to specifically
describe that agreement. In situations where there are a number of "open
issues" (either disputed issues or issues that have not been well
considered), the mediation will take a bit longer. Often mediation is
concluded in a single session. On complex matters it may take multiple
sessions
WHAT IS THE VALUE OF MEDIATION?
It is the most cost effective method of resolving disputes and the least
stressful comparing to a Court trial. In addition to the financial and
emotional savings of mediation, participants are able to fashion their
own agreement which is sensitive and responsive to perceived equities
and desired outcomes. The result is that the work product of mediation,
the Memorandum of Understanding, provides a comprehensive resolution in
terms mediating parties understand and believe in. This results in a
commitment to the agreement which has been shown to enhance future
compliance by providing a cooperative atmosphere for performance of the
terms of agreement.