As a trial lawyer, I have always argued my case from one side or the other. There is always a winner and a loser in litigation. While winning is rewarding, the process is adversarial and can be draining. Mediation is an alternative to litigation and is a means of resolving disputes between parties with the assistance of a neutral third party. A mediator makes no findings of fact and does not give his or her opinion as to how to resolve the issues. The mediator’s role is simply to facilitate a settlement between the parties by engaging them in conversation and helping them to understand the others position and needs. A successful mediation is one in which the parties agree on the best way to resolve their dispute and everyone walks away content. After 20 years of litigating cases, I was intrigued by the prospect of a less adversarial forum. With the training complete, I have been qualified as a R. 1:40 qualified mediator on the roster of court-approved mediators. I have also volunteered to work as a municipal court mediator. I believe that my experiences as a mediator will give me a fresh perspective in the courtroom helping me to be on the winning side more often than not. I am looking forward to helping would-be litigants resolve their disputes through the mediation process.
