When mediated settlement works and cases settle early, parties are spared the time and stress involved in protracted litigation and perhaps trial. In addition, there are other benefits. Though, there is some, but not conclusive evidence, many believe that parties are saved money. When litigation does not drag on and attorneys do not have to prepare for trial, there will be cost savings. Also, when a judge makes a decision, someone wins and someone loses. Mediation offers parties the opportunity to create a win/win situation, where at least some, if not most or all, of the needs of each party are met. Lastly, parties have the satisfaction of knowing they cooperated and worked matters out on their own. This aspect of the process can be especially important in cases where the parties have not just legal, but relationship issues, e.g., relatives fighting over an estate, long-time friends dissolving a partnership, a small business and its long-time supplier locked in a contract dispute. When mediators are skillful and parties willing, grudges can be eliminated, hurt feelings salved, and relationships restored.
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