Mar. 7, 2003

Mediation Process Can Settle Even 'Hopeless' Cases

Focus Column - Alternative Dispute Resolution - By Michael P. Carbone - One of the oft-cited reasons why litigants are reluctant to participate in mediation is that the parties are "simply too far apart." Or, "It would just be a waste of time because the other side is so unreasonable." Ironically, these common refrains are an expression of the very reason why mediation is indicated. If the two sides already were close, then they probably would be able to settle the case on their own.