Why Choose Mediation?
When conflicts arise, people often try direct negotiation first. If that doesn’t work, or if the relationship is strained, there are several alternative approaches.
Other Options to Consider
- Conflict coaching can help one party prepare for negotiation discussions.
- Facilitation and mediation provide structured support for all parties, encouraging productive discussions and perspective-sharing, while leaving decision-making authority in the hands of participants. Facilitation often focuses on groups and may emphasize sharing perspectives over making final agreements.
- In divorce or family matters, collaborative law allows lawyers to work cooperatively to resolve disputes without going to court.
- Arbitration begins with facilitated discussions but concludes with an arbitrator making a binding decision.
- Litigation is the traditional court process, where decisions are made by a judge or jury. While sometimes necessary, litigation is the most adversarial option and can strain relationships.
Why Mediation Makes Sense
- More Efficient. Mediation is often faster and less expensive than litigation, while keeping control in the hands of the participants.
- Participant Control. Rather than handing the outcome to a judge, parties work together to craft solutions they can commit to and implement.
- Creative Problem-Solving. Mediation encourages conversations that reveal solutions participants may not have previously considered.
- Relationship-Conscious. The process is gentler on all parties, particularly when ongoing relationships need to be preserved.
- Durable Agreements. Collaborative, self-directed solutions often lead to stronger follow-through and better long-term outcomes than court-ordered decisions.
Mediation is:
More efficient - Save money, time, and hassle
Mediation often resolves disputes faster and more cost-effectively than court. Even winning a case in court can take extra time and money to enforce. Agreements reached by parties in mediation are more likely to be honored, and if needed, a signed agreement can be enforced in court.
Self-empowering
Mediation puts participants in control, allowing them to shape the outcome themselves. It strengthens conflict resolution skills and encourages collaboration. Participants often leave surprised by what they were able to accomplish and with a more positive view of the other party.
Supportive of all participants
Mediation ensures everyone has access to the resources they need to have a balanced, informed conversation. The mediator stays neutral, facilitating the process and supporting all participants equally.
Confidential
Mediation in Oregon is confidential, unlike court proceedings. What you share with the mediator remains private unless you choose to disclose it. The only exception is if the mediator is a mandatory reporter, such as in certain cases of abuse or threats of immediate harm. Signed agreements can be used in court if necessary, but the process itself remains private.
A personalized process for tailored solutions
Mediation goes beyond what courts can order, offering creative, customized solutions. Agreements can cover communication, payment plans, daily logistics, and other arrangements that meet participants’ real-life needs. Participants know their conflict best and can craft solutions that are practical, sustainable, and work for them.
A focused, client-centered approach
Your mediator guides you through a personalized, collaborative process so you and the other party can reach solutions that truly work. Flexible scheduling and reliable communication make it easy to participate, and every step is designed to make the process clear, fair, and effective, so you can move forward with confidence.