This is a form of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a way of resolving disputes between two or more parties. A third party, the Mediator assists the parties to negotiate their own settlement.

In some cases, mediators may express a view on what might be a fair or reasonable settlement, generally where all parties agree that the mediator may do so.

Several reasons exist for choosing mediation over other channels of dispute resolution:

• Parties to a dispute may choose mediation as a less expensive route to follow for dispute resolution. While a mediator may charge a fee, comparable to that of an attorney, the mediation process generally takes much less time

Mediation can function not only as a tool for dispute resolution but also as a means of dispute prevention. Mediation can be used to facilitate the process of contract negotiation by the identification of mutual interests and the promotion of effective communication between two parties.

Not all disputes lend themselves well to mediation. One set of criteria for suitability is provided in mediation.