A mediator can bring a new perspective to the proceedings. Through the mediator's own knowledge of the subject matter, he or she can assist parties in exploring alternatives that they might not have previously considered. Parties are directly engaged in the negotiation of the settlement. The mediator, as a neutral third party, can view the dispute objectively and can assist the parties in exploring alternatives which they might not have considered on their own. As mediation can be schedule at an early stage in the dispute, a settlement can be reached much more quickly than in litigation.
Parties generally save money through reduced legal costs and less staff time.
Mediators have been carefully chosen for their knowledge and experience. Attorneys and nonattorneys from many professions, all of whom have received extensive training, serve on the AAA's roster of mediators. Parties enhance the likelihood of continuing their business relationship Creative solutions or accommodations to special needs of the parties can become a part of the settlement. Information disclosed at a mediation may not be divulged as evidence in any arbitral, judicial or other proceeding. The AAA is the world leader in the design and development of dispute resolution systems.