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Control- Mediation belongs to the parties. The disputing parties control the process, scheduling, costs, and outcome of the dispute.
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Less Adversarial- The mediation process is informal. It is less confrontational than arbitration or litigation.
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Preserves Options- Parties can enter into mediation without jeopardizing their option to arbitrate or litigate.
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Swift Settlement- Most mediations are successfully concluded in a single day. Since mediation can be scheduled soon after a dispute arises, parties reach settlement much earlier than in arbitration or litigation. Many mediations conclude before a formal arbitration claim is filed.
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Lower Cost - Mediation usually entails lower legal and preparatory costs, there is minimal interruption of business or personal life, lost productivity is kept to a minimum, and the fees and expenses of mediation are modest.
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Preservation Of Business Relationships- By reaching an early resolution with minimal financial or other strain on either party, the chances for preserving business relationships are greatly enhanced.
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Protects Privacy- Mediation offers greater confidentiality than arbitration.
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Creative Solutions- Mediators help the parties craft creative solutions.