Mediators: Margaret Walker and Kevin Massaro
We are pleased to announce that our senior associate attorneys, Margaret Walker and Kevin Massaro, are now handling all mediation cases at The Harris Law Firm.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR.)
Because our court systems are overburdened, the State of Colorado encourages people to attempt to settle their problems outside of the courtroom by using varying forms of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR.) Mediation is a specific type of ADR, and a process that can be either court-ordered or voluntary.
Mediation Can Save Time and Money
While not all disputes are appropriate for mediation, this alternative can be a means to speed up the resolution process by keeping the case out of the courtroom. Cases that can be resolved using the mediation process are far less costly than traditional lawsuits.
The Process of Mediation
To begin the process, both individuals meet with a Mediator who will facilitate an open dialogue between the parties. As a neutral third party, the Mediator will empower the individuals to communicate, identify the issues and openly express their feelings in a respectful manner. As mediation progresses toward a mutually agreed upon goal, and if both the parties can agree on a solution to the problems at hand, an agreement is written and signed by the Mediator and the individuals involved. Before signing any agreement, the parties have the option to have the mediation agreement reviewed by their separate attorneys because the agreement may result in a binding contract that is enforceable in a court of law.
Mediation Works!
Mediation provides the opportunity for both parties to agree on a solution through communication, negotiation and compromise. Mediation results in solutions that both parties have created, and statistics prove that mediation works!
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