Why Consider Mediation?

Compared to a lawsuit, mediation is swift, confidential, fair, and low cost. Here's a full explanation of its advantages.

Mediation: Ten Rules for Success

Get good results at your mediation by keeping these basic tenets in mind.

Mediation: The Six Stages

Mediation is much less formal than going to court, but the conflict resolution process does involve distinct stages designed to lead to a mutually beneficial compromise. Here's what to expect.

Mediation: What Kinds of Cases Can Be Mediated?

Mediation can be used for most civil (noncriminal) disputes, and is sometimes available even when courts are not.

Getting the Other Side to the Mediation Table

Tips on getting a quarrelsome or unresponsive opponent to sit down and be reasonable during conflict resolution.

Mediation: Do You Still Need a Lawyer?

Most mediations don't require an attorney, but there are some situations in which you may want to consult a lawyer.

How Your Lawyer Can Help With Mediation

Even if you're represented by a lawyer, you can still mediate your dispute. Here are some ways your lawyer can help out.

Mediate Your Small Claims Case

Learn the basics of settling your small claims case through mediation.

Arbitration Basics

Learn the basics about arbitration: what it is, when it arises, andhow the process works.

Arbitration Pros and Cons

Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of arbitration.

Mediation FAQ

Find the answer to your questions here.

The Arbitration Process

Arbitration clauses -- requiring parties to resolve disputes through arbitration -- are found in many contracts these days. The American Arbitration Association alone estimates that it handles more than 2 million arbitrations each year, and hundreds of thousands more are conducted by other groups and individuals. Yet despite the growing use of arbitration, many people don't know what arbitration is or how it works.

What should I do about a mediator who doesn't keep confidentiality?

I recently attended a mediation in which all agreed to confidentiality. Then I heard from a friend that the mediator told him all about the case, much to my embarrassment. What can I do about this?

My personal injury lawyer won't be straight with me on fees. What can I do?

Any lawyer you consult should provide you with a written contract setting out all fees.

How can I get around the plaintiff's lawyer and settle?

How to file a complaint against the attorney for interference?