Research Basis
MEDIATION is a formal process to facilitate communication. It is “assistance to two or more interacting parties by a third party (the mediator) who does not have the power to prescribe or mandate agreements or outcomes" (Kressel). Mediators are multi-partial; they do not take sides or make judgments. Self-determination ensures the parties in conflict reach their own solutions; mediators do not impose resolutions. The process is confidential under MA law; mediators do not divulge any information of a mediation. Mediation is voluntary.