The process focuses on solutions not blame. Mediation also helps unclog our court system. If one side really thinks it will do better in court, the mediation process is hampered from the beginning. Finally, mediation requires considerable commitment to work on the conflict. Although anyone can offer to mediate a conflict, individual states can impose certain qualifications on mediators that are referred by the court system.
Some states require mediators to be attorneys.
Although the mediator is a facilitator, it is helpful that he or she have experience relating to the dispute. For example, mediators used for business disputes often are also business consultants with significant experience, and those handling family mediation are often social workers or counselors with experience counseling families on a variety of problems. Experience in the area of dispute is important since the mediator assists with exploring options. Many local Better Business Bureaus offer mediation. Most have a couple of mediators on staff and use a network of independent mediators.