It is advisable to mediate if given the opportunity. Mediation is not a sign of weakness. Often litigation cases can be resolved by discussion and sometimes parties are closer to settlement than they realise. Always take the option of mediation as it could save considerable costs. It is also very useful to explore the strengths and weaknesses of each side and mediation is a very good opportunity for this. Knowing the weakness in your case as well as the strength enables you to reach a favourable settlement.