Alaska What is Mediation? Answers to Frequently Asked Questions is a type of dispute resolution process in which an impartial mediator facilitates communication and negotiations between two or more parties to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. It is a voluntary process that eliminates the need for a court trial and is often used in family law matters, such as divorce, child custody, and guardianship. Mediation is typically a less expensive, faster, and less stressful alternative to litigation. It is also often more successful in helping parties reach an agreement, as the mediator can provide impartial guidance and help the parties understand each other’s perspectives. The mediator does not decide the outcome or impose a solution; rather, the mediator helps the parties reach an agreement that both sides can accept. The types of Alaska What is Mediation? Answers to Frequently Asked Questions generally include: • Divorce Mediation: This type of mediation is used to help couples who are going through a divorce reach an agreement on matters such as alimony, child custody and support, and property division. • Child Custody Mediation: This type of mediation is used to help parents resolve disputes about child custody arrangements. The goal is for parents to create a parenting plan that works for their family and meets the best interests of the child. • Guardianship Mediation: This type of mediation is used to help families resolve disputes over guardianship of a minor child. The goal is to create an arrangement that meets the best interests of the child and is acceptable to all parties. • Elder Mediation: This type of mediation is used to help families resolve disputes over the care of an elderly family member. The goal is to create an arrangement that meets the best interests of the elderly person and is acceptable to all parties.