The responsibility for arriving at an agreement lies with the parties. The mediator's role is to facilitate the discussions. If a mediation process is selected, initial meetings are normally held within two weeks. The mediation process for civil and commercial disputes typically lasts between one and two days. There are no examinations, no court hearings.
Court proceedings are public and anyone can attend.
Court decisions are made public and available to anyone who wants a copy. In mediation, no one will even be aware of your problems, and your reputation will not be affected. During a mediation process, you are in charge. You plead your case, explain your point of view and outline the facts. Your lawyer is there only to assist you and give his advice on the consequences of the different offers made and agreements negotiated.