Mediation is a process of alternative dispute resolution involving a third party as a mediator.
A mediator is an impartial, unbiased person. The parties to a dispute can ask a mediator to help them with their negotiations. The function of the mediator is to manage the process for the parties, get them talking and help them to reach a solution that meets their needs. The mediator is there to help the parties move the discussion forward and to ease any tensions between the parties. The parties themselves must resolve the issue.