Considering Mediation? Allow Us To Share Some Tips!

Mediation is a non-hostile means of reaching a mutually-beneficial conclusion to a dispute. Litigation can be expensive as well as time-consuming. As a result, many parties understand the value of mediation, and realize that they may reach a more-desired outcome if they seek the help of a neutral party.

In order to help you better-prepare for mediation, we’ve provided the following tips.

1. Get Clear on Your Goals

Negotiation is a science; that is to say, you must have a set of rules that you can use to help shine the light on the route you will take. By being clear on your goals, you won’t be sidelined, and you’re more likely to spend less time at the negotiation table. Whatever your goals are, write them down and share them with your attorney in order to stay on course at all times.

2. Your Mannerisms Matter

Negotiation isn’t supposed to be a my-way-or-the-highway kind of thing. You may not reach a resolution, but you may get to a point where both parties can agree to compromise on certain issues. Resist the urge to make inflammatory statements, pound on the table or use underhanded tactics to get your way. If you feel that you cannot help from being emotionally reactive, look into having someone else represent you at the negotiation table, or cooling off when things start getting hot by asking to leave the room. Losing your cool will only complicate things, and it just might spur the other party on into taking the litigation route.

3. Timing is Critical

There’s a right time for everything, and mediation is no exception. Early mediation allows you to squash the matter at hand before you’re pinned against a rock and a hard place as the litigation date grows nearer. Use this opportunity to allay any concerns the other party may have, discover more information regarding the case and find out if there is a way for you to reach a resolution without the need for trial.

4. Documentation is Important

You must do your due diligence to ensure that you have all the needed documents before negotiation. If there are any forms that you need to complete before the process starts, do it in good time. If there are any documents which will prove the presence of a certain piece of evidence, make sure that they are with you or your counsel while at the negotiation table.

5. Understand The Various Stages of Mediation

It’s important to note that the mediator isn’t someone who will decide on the fate of your dispute; that is to say, they will only raise a mirror to both parties so you can see what the other party is seeing in order to reach a resolution. You have to understand that both parties will determine the outcome of the mediation and that the mediator’s only role is to help the process along.

If you’re interested in mediation for your case, consider calling the Dallas mediators at Rasansky Resolution Center at (214) 275-5333.