When involved in a lawsuit, parties often find themselves entangled in a lengthy and adversarial legal process that can be emotionally draining, financially burdensome, and time-consuming. In recent years, alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, have gained popularity as a means to resolve disputes outside of the courtroom. In this article, I will delve into the concept of mediation and evaluate its worthiness as a valuable tool in the context of a lawsuit. We are often required to participate in Mediation once litigation is started in most counties in Colorado.
Understanding Mediation
Mediation is a voluntary process in which an impartial third party, the mediator, facilitates negotiations between the parties involved in a lawsuit. The mediator does not render a judgment or make decisions, but rather assists the parties in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement. The goal of mediation is to foster open communication, identify common interests, and explore potential solutions that address the concerns of all parties involved.