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There are typically six stages of the mediation process: A Party Shows Interest or Initiates a Straight-in Mediation. Parties Agree to Mediate. Parties Select the Mediator and Schedule the Mediation Date. Parties Submit Pre-Mediation Submissions. Parties, Counsel and Mediator Attend Mediation Session.

While mediation may not always result in a settlement, it does allow the parties to meet and consider what a settlement could look like, which may encourage the parties to come together later for a settlement.

The primary disadvantage of mediation is that it cannot always ensure an outcome that is favorable to both parties. Because the mediator is not an impartial decision-maker, it can be difficult to enforce the terms of an agreement in the event that one or both parties do not comply with the terms they have agreed to.

Seek compromise, not judgment Stay away from any attempt to fight the other party. Mediation is about negotiations and compromise. Instead of seeking to win the case and defeat your opponent, engage in an open and honest conversation to settle.

An uncontested divorce will finalize within 90 to 120 days. If there is a separation agreement involved, the timeline is closer to the 120 days. There are simplified divorce procedures for people who are in complete agreement and they may apply to you.

The arbitrator conducts a hearing in which parties present witnesses, documents, and evidence in support of their case. The arbitrator then renders a decision called an Award, or Award of Arbitrator, which is final and legally binding.

Arbitration is another route to settlement, but unlike the two options discussed above, where resolution is voluntary, it is typically binding.

Court hearings are open to the public. Everyone who is sitting in the courtroom will hear everything you say to the judge. Mediation is confidential and private, so the other party can't use what you say in mediation against you in court later.

One of the arbitrators serves as the chairperson and rules on the admissibility of evidence. It is treated like a mini-trial. There are opening and closing statements and the rules of evidence apply. The arbitration panel will issue a written decision (on a form authorized by the Supreme Court) that same day.