Mediation is a practical and cost-effective forum that is best used to help parties who might be willing to settle a case but need help closing the gap between their positions. It is a forum that courts strongly encourage. 

Mediation typically occurs at the mediator’s office, with each side placed in different rooms. The mediator goes back and forth between the rooms and talks with each side. The mediator does not have the authority to decide the case, but they can help each side understand the risks of proceeding to trial.