An attempt to reconcile differences between two sides of an issue, particularly as it relates to labor relations.
A procedure under which two parties submit their dispute for resolution to a neutral third party. Like arbitration, mediation is a way to avoid the cost, delay, and hard feelings that often attend court cases. However, unlike arbitration, in mediation the neutral party has no power to impose a solution, instead attempting to help the disputants reach a solution themselves. In some states, such as California, mediation is mandatory in cases of disputes over custody and visitation rights, and counseling services often act as court-associated mediators in divorce and other family law situations.
A method of settling disputes by bringing the parties together to agree on a solution, rather than having a third party (such as an arbitrator, judge, or jury) make the decision for them. Mediation, usually done with the assistance of a mediator (someone trained in dispute resolution), may be private or may be connected to the court system. Some states have laws requiring or encouraging mediation as an alternative or supplement to costly, time-consuming lawsuits or trials.
A process in which conflicts are resolved with the help of a neutral third party.