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When faced with legal issues, many people are turning to mediators for professional assistance. A form of alternative dispute resolution, mediation is private, flexible and fast. The process offers parties a few key benefits, including decreased cost and the ability to control and determine their own solutions and resolutions in most cases. But how can you tell if a potential mediator is right for you? Here are a few questions to help you vet mediators. 

Ask These 4 Questions When Searching for a Mediator

Is My Case Suitable for Mediation?

While mediation can be beneficial for many people, it’s not for everyone. It’s important your mediator is candid about whether the process is right for you. Mediation is generally a consensual process.  Consider whether the involved and necessary parties are willing and ready to participate in a good faith discussion and search for acceptable solutions to existing disputes. Determine whether all parties have the necessary information to permit them to make sound decisions

What Are Your Qualifications?

mediationYou also want to make sure your mediator is up to the task. This entails having the right training, experience and professional qualifications, which a mediator should be willing to share with you during the initial consultation. It’s also helpful if the mediator has experience with the type of legal issue you’re handling. 

How Much Will It Cost and When Can It Be Done?

Ask how much the mediation will cost and set an appropriate budget. Ask the mediator’s availability and set a workable schedule.

Is the Process Confidential?

Confidentiality is a key component of mediation. Mediation is a private process. Only the involved parties and those requested or invited by the parties to participate generally attend mediation sessions. There are State Laws and rules of evidence which seeks to encourage parties to settle and resolve their disputes and protects the confidentiality of statements and actions taken in mediation and limits or restricts the use of confidential or privileged mediation communications and actions. In addition, mediators can pledge to maintain the confidentiality of information provided and statements made to the mediator in mediation. You should clarify with your mediator the scope and extent of any needed or desired confidentiality.

 

As a trusted mediator in Honolulu, HI, Lou Chang Mediation & Arbitration helps clients to confidentially and quickly resolve their disputes and conflicts on amenable terms. He has been recognized as a top provider of mediation and arbitration services and was selected as Best Lawyer in Hawaii in Mediation (2018) Arbitration (2016) and Alternative Dispute Resolution (2013). Call (808) 384-2468 for more information on how mediation can benefit you. If you’d like to see the full range of services currently available, visit his website.

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