In civil and domestic matters
The parties are often better off reaching an agreement that
serves the interests of each party as much as possible. Leaving the matter to the decision of the
The court or jury essentially places the fate of the parties' outcome in the hands of others.
Mediation is a process by which the parties and their respective attorneys meet with a neutral
third party, a mediator, and discuss the issues in litigation as well as each side's desired outcome.
Then, the mediator will attempt to facilitate a settlement of the issues that is acceptable to each
party. While this process does require a give and take mindset on the part of all those involved, it
does provide a less expensive alternative to trial and allows the litigants to participate in an active
way in the outcome of their case.
The caliber of the mediator is a serious factor in the success of the mediation. In other
words, a good mediator will create a safe, comfortable environment and promote a means of
communication which provides the parties the best chance for successful resolution in the form of
an agreement as to the issues.
Christopher Garner is a certified mediator with experience in serving families and civil
litigants in the resolution of their cases.