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Mediation
We don't just resolve disputes - we solve problems
What is Mediation?
At Mavros Panagos Law our mediators guide attorneys and their clients to resolve difficult disputes. We work to solve business and family disputes by providing both parties with efficient, cost-effective and impartial ways of overcoming barriers at any stage of conflict.
In all matters, the goal of our mediators is to listen and fully understand the nature of the dispute and then work towards a resolution without costly litigation.
We offer customized in-person, virtual and hybrid dispute resolution services through a combination of first class client service, the latest technology, top-notch facilities and highly trained mediators.
Mediation is a flexible process by which a third-party neutral works together with disputing parties to come to a mutually agreed upon resolution of their conflict. Mediation can be used in any legal dispute, such as a family, probate, administration, foreclosure, employment, breach of contract, maplractice and other legal matters. Disputing parties may choose mediation or a court may order mandatory mediation. With private mediation the parties get to choose their mediator. When a court orders mandatory mediation, the judge or the ADR (Alternate Dispute Resolution) Coordinator, who is an employee of the New York Court System, will select the mediator.
Six Truths about Mediation:
Parties Retain Control- The parties to a mediation get to choose who the mediator will be. They choose whether they will enter into a settlement agreement and what the terms of that settlement agreement will be. Ultimately the mediation process allows parties to be the architects of their settlement agreement and self-determine the outcome of their dispute.
Mediation is Voluntary- Private mediation chosen by the parties is voluntary. The parties can, at any time during the process, choose to end the mediation. Even court ordered mediation can be terminated after the required 90 minute mandatory session.
Mediation is Confidential- All the information that is shared during the mediation process is confidential. None of what is said by one party can be repeated to the other party unless the mediator has explicit permission to do so. Additionally, details of the mediation process can not be made known to the public. This confidentiality requirement is stipulated and agreed to in the mediation agreement signed by the parties prior to the commencement of the mediation process.
Mediation is "Without Prejudice"- Any information disclosed such as offers, concessions or admissions cannot be used against either party if the dispute were to continue to trial.
Mediation is Non-binding- The mediation process is not binding unless and until the parties settle the dispute and enter into a written and signed agreement.
The Mediator is a Facilitator- The Mediator is not a judge or an arbitrator. A mediator will not take sides, provide a verdict or give their opinion on the merits of the dispute. The mediator is simply a neutral third party facilitator who works to clarify the issues and guide the parties to a mutually agreed upon resolution.
Benefits of Mediation:
Mediation offers disputing parties a way to move forward with their lives, saves significant time and exorbitant court and attorney's fees. It preserves and protects family and business relationships and can provide an agreement that both parties will be able to comply with in the coming years.
*Member of the International Mediator Institute and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.
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