Mediation

Mediation is a dispute-resolution process in which the disputing parties maintain the maximum control over the process and its outcome.

How Mediation Works

A Mediator is Chosen

Mediation involves the participation of a neutral (i.e., someone who has no interest in the dispute and no conflicting ties to the parties to the dispute). That neutral is the mediator.

The Resolution Process Begins

The mediator helps parties move from their positions coming into the dispute to their shared interests by helping the parties to define the dispute, asking questions, and assisting in coming up with options.

A Final Decision is Made

The dispute cannot be resolved by the mediator; it can only be resolved by the parties coming to an agreement as to the resolution of the conflict.

Why La Rue

As a master of the mediation process, I believe that the most effective style of mediation is one of facilitation, based on a philosophy of self-determination by the parties: “It’s the parties’ dispute, and the resolution is theirs.”

The Facilitative Mediation

The facilitative style of mediation is one in which the mediator asks questions, causing each party to have doubt in the position that brought them into mediation. The mediator assists the parties in identifying their interests (as opposed to their positions) and where each parties’ interests intersect.

Minimal Directiveness

I also will incorporate, where appropriate, a style of minimal directiveness, or one that is more mediator-directed. This is sometimes referred to as an analytical style, in which I may share my opinions, with the permission of the parties, about positions being taken by the parties.

Conflict is inevitable in any relationship

—business or personal, but the outcome of a dispute is not foreordained.