Mediation - a more structured process than conciliation in which a neutral person facilitates a meeting of the parties so they may reach a mutually acceptable solution to their dispute. With an objective evaluation, the parties have a realistic view of the court outcome, which may lead to settlement. Arbitration - a more formal process in which a third party neutral hears arguments by the parties, but does not facilitate negotiation between them, and has the authority to make a decision. The decision may be binding or non-binding at the parties discretion. While all these processes involve a third party neutral and are effective ways to resolve conflict, the process that has been the fastest growing and most popular in Virginia is mediation .
Mediation is negotiation facilitated by a neutral third party.
It is chance to speak about what is important to you and listen to what is important to the other person. It is a way for you to take control of your own dispute. It is a voluntary process. It is a confidential process. It is a process that can result in a binding agreement.