Mediation vs. Litigation
Why Should I Choose Mediation over Litigation?
Experience shows that litigation often ends in settlement. Mediation is an efficient and cost-effective way of achieving a settlement while preserving the integrity of the individual parties while saving cost and time.
Mediation v. Litigation
Mediation fees, including a review and preparation of the paperwork will most likely not exceed $3,000 |
Litigation will most likely exceed $30,000 |
With a neutral mediator, you problem solve to design an agreement that works for you, your family and/or your company. |
During litigation a jury or a judge will make the decision for you, leaving no room for alterative ways to settle. |
Duration: Hours or Days |
Duration: Months or Years |
No filing or service cost. |
Filing and service cost can range anywhere from $25 - $90/party. |
If you are still not sure if mediation is the right choice for you, please review the factors below that may tip the scale towards mediation:
- There is an interest in compromise rather than in delay or in setting a precedent.
- There is uncertainty regarding the outcome through another dispute resolution process.
- The value of the case makes the cost of mediation reasonable, even if the mediation fails to settle all issues.
- The parties are focused and rational.
- One or more parties cannot tolerate the risk of litigation, such as a runaway jury or statutory damages.
- The cost of winning is onerous.
- There is a need to maintain an ongoing relationship.
- There has been a lengthy or contentious history between the parties.
- There are overlapping jurisdictions or diverse interests requiring process design and management.
- The problem may be solved in phases or stages.
- There is appropriate representation and authority to settle.
- The parties share common ground and there are trade-off possibilities.
