What is a Mediator?: Heavy court caseloads and rising legal
costs have prompted many people to settle their legal disputes
outside the courtroom through a process known as alternative
dispute resolution (ADR). Mediators, also known as arbitrators
and conciliators, guide the ADR process and help resolve
conflicts between disputing parties. Job Duties of Mediators:
Mediators facilitate negotiation and settlement between
disputing parties by providing direction and encouragement,
working collaboratively with the parties and finding creative
ways to reach a mutual solution. Specific duties vary widely
depending upon practice setting but may include facilitating
discussion and controlling the direction of negotiations;
preparing court reports, social case histories, correspondence
and other documents; implementing legislative enactments and
court rules relating to a case; and keeping abreast of current
trends, rules and legislation. Although many mediators are
lawyers and former judges, non-lawyers from all backgr