Mediation

Introduction- A definition
A simple definition is where one or more neutral people work with parties in a dispute to improve communication and understanding so that the parties can arrive at a voluntary agreement. The mediator has no power to impose a solution.

Christian mediation
esolve specialises in 'Christian mediation'. Whilst in practice there are many process similarities to commercial mediation 'Christian mediation' has a number of distinctives. The mediator will want to please and honour God and encourage the parties to do the same. . The mediator will focus not just on the substantive dispute but encourage the parties to look at relational issues. This may include encouraging the parties to go beyond surface issues and examine their own hearts, see what they have contributed to the conflict and take appropriate responsibility for such contribution. The mediator will encourage the parties to see their need for God and to be open to counsel from his word. At the conclusion a Christian mediator will seek to obtain 3 outcomes:
1. Process satisfaction- The parties will leave the mediation satisfied that the process has been fair, orderly, and even handed with each having been fully heard.
2. Personal satisfaction-The parties will have been treated with respect, courtesy and equality.
3. Product satisfaction-The parties perceive their decision as being just and equitable with relational issues as well as substantive issues being dealt with.

Resolve mediators
Many of Resolve mediators have been trained both in commercial mediation and in 'Christian mediation'. Others have simply been trained in 'Christian mediation' which of course includes many of the skills needed by commercial mediators and the extra skills which recognise the spiritual background the parties bring to the table.

Fees
Resolve mediators are approved by the Resolve Board. Each mediator will set his/her own fee. Where the inquiry has come to Resolve and a Resolve approved mediator is selected the mediator will pay 12% of the fee paid by the parties to Resolve. Fees charged by a Resolve employee will all go to Resolve.

Mediation advantages
There are many. The main ones are: The process is confidential. Mediation can be arranged quickly. Parties are in control of the process and can settle or not as they choose. It is cheaper and quicker than litigation. Relational aspects can be dealt with. Lawyers and/or support people can be present if required. The process is 'without prejudice' meaning if settlement is not achieved the parties can not use what is said in mediation at a later hearing. There are opportunities for private discussions between the mediator and one party which can help the process. It is relatively an informal process so not as 'scary' for participants as an appearance in court.