Mediation

Mediation is a an alternative dispute resolution process in which the parties meet with a trained neutral party, known as a mediator, and try to reach a settlement of their dispute. The job of mediator is to help the parties try to reach a settlement. The mediator does not decide the case and cannot impose a settlement on the parties.

Mediation has proven to be an effective means of resolving a wide variety of disputes. Sometimes, courts require parties to mediate, but many parties voluntarily agree to do so. Mediation allows each party to present its views to the other side. The parties also typically meet separately with the mediator in private sessions known as "caucuses." If the mediation is successful and a settlement is reached, the settlement will be confirmed in a written settlement agreement.

Our litigators have considerable experience in representing parties in mediation. They are familiar with how mediation proceeds, and know how to present cases effectively in mediation and to negotiate for a successful resolution.

In addition, two of our lawyers, John Watkins and Celeste McCollough, are available to act as mediators. John and Celeste are each registered mediators with the Georgia Office of Dispute Resolution. John and Celeste each have many years of experience in representing parties in litigation and in mediation.

John L. Watkins Celeste McCollough
Mediation Conference Room 1 Mediation Conference Room 2 Mediation Conference Rooms

John and Celeste are available to conduct mediations at the firm and should be contacted at the office for more information.

Information from John's mediation website, www.watkinsmediation.com, has also been folded into this website. For more information about mediation, click here to read John's comments on Mediation Basics, and here to read his comments on advanced mediation.