Our mediators are trained and certified to help the parties make important decisions relative to their future. Other than voluntary termination of an unresolved dispute there are three legal approaches to a solution: (1) mediation, (2) arbitration or, if all else fails, (3) litigation. Entering into mediation with a skilled, experienced mediator is considered by most parties to be the best way to arrive at a solution. Here's Why:
Why Mediation?
The most preferred, and growing, popular form of settling a dispute is mediation. The successful mediation session must be conducted by a skilled, trained person who acts as a "neutral." At no time does the mediator give any evidence of partiality to either side. Everything said is privileged and confidential. Mediators do not discuss anything related to the parties outside the meeting room. The job of the mediator is to facilitate an agreement between the parties. Mediation allows both parties to maintain greater control of their lives and make their own decisions. The process fosters understanding, cooperation, and agreements that work for both parties. It saves substantial money for the parties and takes much less time than arbitration or litigation. Another benefit is privacy. All discussions and settlements are confidential. Only the parties and the mediator know the results. The parties avoid public disclosure of sensitive information in the courts.
Using a qualified third party outside of court to make the decision is arbitration. Rather than go through the hassle and expense of a formal trial, above, another option is arbitration. In arbitration the parties appear before the arbitrator without, or with an attorney (recommended) to present their case. Each side may present witnesses and documentation for support. After one side's presentation of evidence and witnesses, the other side has equal opportunity. It is a third party, the arbitrator, not the parties, who makes the decision, as to the outcome. If one party is unsatisfied with the arbitrator's decision that party may proceed to litigation providing timely notice is given.
In the rare case that goes to trial, (litigation) there are two, or more, attorneys, each of whom, if they are skilled mid level attorneys, will want a sizeable retainer (usually several thousand dollars) and at least $250.00 to $450.00 per hour plus expenses; paralegal, telephone calls, travel, preparation, etc., etc. Uncertainty prevails over both parties. Even the most experienced attorneys cannot tell you what the Court will decide and considerable time and money will be spent before you get to Court to learn a result that may be contra to what you asked for or needed! There are times when a qualified attorney is needed due to interpretations of the laws, finding suitable cases relative to the issues and more sophisticated procedural knowledge. This is the exception rather than the rule.
Why Mediators Northwest?
Divorce: when critical life decisions are to be made, this is not the time to "bargain hunt." The paperwork required by the state is complicated and there is lots of it. You need proven, skilled, high quality experienced guidance to work through the areas of concern to all the parties, wife, husband and the children. This is a significant time of need for proven skilled guidance. Do-it-yourself or bargain basement rates will get you just what you paid for, an unsatisfactory product. At this critical juncture of your life you need proven quality. You need Mediators Northwest.
Business and commercial disputes are generally complicated disputes that require sophisticated, experienced, business trained and skilled talent to effect sensible, comprehensive, mutually acceptable agreed upon solutions.
Mediators Northwest has, and will, provide the skills and solutions necessary to settle both family and business conflicts and disputes. Our 96% success rate directly answers the question, why Mediators Northwest?
