Mediating Neighbor Disputes

Tensions can run incredibly high in a neighbor dispute, with both parties naturally feeling strongly about their use and enjoyment of their home and hearth. In the worst-case scenario, neighbor disputes can lead to long-term feuds and even violence. With appropriate use of the legal system, however, such results can be averted.

First, mediation and arbitration offer powerful legal tools to help resolve a neighbor dispute. Having a neutral third party is invaluable -- but typically much less expensive than hiring an attorney or going to court. What's more, these alternative dispute resolution methods can lead to creative solutions that a judge wouldn't even have the power to grant.  

But when other methods fail, or a neighbor is completely uncooperative, the court system may be a necessary stop.

Here's how to plan and prepare for your day before a mediator, arbitrator, or judge.