Mediation Services San Francisco

Mediation Services San Francisco

Mediation can be an effective tool for resolving legal disputes without the time and expense of formal litigation. Without the right mediator, however, it can be a counterproductive exercise that actually makes the parties more contentious. It is important to work with an experienced mediator who understands how to resolve civil and consumer claims. The San Francisco mediation services at Olivier & Schreiber P.C. allow you to resolve your legal disputes quickly, inexpensively, and effectively while maintaining control of the outcome of your case.

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a form of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). ADR tools allow the parties to work together to resolve their legal disputes without going through the lengthy (and expensive) process of formal litigation. With mediation, the parties agree to allow a mediator to guide their settlement discussions. 

A mediator is usually an experienced litigator who has seen many cases go to court. This knowledge allows the mediator to advise the parties of what is likely to happen to their case if it goes to trial. With knowledge of the risks they face at trial, each party can make informed decisions about if and how they are willing to settle the case. 

How Do I Know If Mediation is Right For My Case?

Mediation requires the parties to work together with an honest intention to resolve their case. If either party is determined to go to trial and has no interest in settling, mediation is not likely to be productive. There are also some extenuating circumstances that could make mediation inappropriate. If, for example, a divorcing couple has mutual restraining orders against each other, they might not feel safe working together to resolve their case. Speak with one of our experienced mediators at Olivier & Schreiber P.C. about your case to learn if mediation is right for your unique situation. 

Are There Alternatives To Mediation?

Mediation is not the only form of alternative dispute resolution. The parties can also engage in arbitration, in which an arbitrator hears each side of the case and makes a ruling about it. Arbitration can be binding or non-binding. If the parties agree to binding arbitration they are bound by the arbitrator’s rulings, and cannot appeal them to a court without legal cause. This is a significant step to take. Early on in a case, it is usually better to use the more informal process of mediation and work together to create solutions that both parties can agree to. 

San Francisco Mediation Services From Experienced Attorneys

Our mediation services in San Francisco help clients save time and money while maintaining control of the outcome of their legal disputes. With mediation, you will not be bound by the rulings of an arbitrator, judge, or jury. We work to find creative solutions to legal disputes. The experienced litigators at Olivier & Schreiber P.C. have years of legal experience, which makes them effective mediators in a wide variety of cases. Call (415) 484-0980 or visit our website to schedule your consultation today.