The mediator usually will continue to caucus alternately with each party, carrying settlement proposals back and forth until an agreement is reached. The agreement is then reduced to writing and signed by the parties. While the time required for mediation varies, most mediation sessions involve less than a day. Expenses of the mediation are shared equally by the parties unless they agree otherwise. Parties should know in advance what the mediator charges.
Parties keep control over the outcome of their own problem.
Disputes can be settled promptly. A mediation session can be scheduled as soon as both parties agree to use the mediation to resolve the dispute, even before a lawsuit is filed. Mediation promotes better relationships through cooperative problem-solving and improved communication. Both legal facts and the real interests of the parties are considered with the help of an impartial mediator. Mediation is private and confidential.