Mediation and Arbitration

Mediation and Arbitration

Southwest Michigan and Northern IndianaMediators and Arbitrators

Sometimes litigation can be avoided or settled prior to trial.  Mediation and arbitration often provide substantial benefits to everyone involved. Because of the flexibility afforded the mediator or arbitrator, resolutions often can be tailored to fit everyone’s needs.

Our Experience

As Mediators

Firm partners Michael Caywood and Joseph Haas are both experienced mediators. Michael is a certified mediator under Michigan Court Rules, which requires extensive training and superior conflict resolution skills. Joseph is a leading family law mediator in Southwest Michigan.

We offer knowledge and skill to help all parties obtain a mutually beneficial outcome that can save thousands of dollars in legal fees, as well as sparing litigants the emotional anguish, uncertainty, and lost productive time that naturally accompany litigation.  As experienced litigators, we are keenly aware of what issues need to be pursued through litigation, and what issues are right for mediation or arbitration.

As Arbitrators

As arbitrators, we are experienced in the rules that commonly govern such proceedings, particularly those governing evidence and discovery.  We use a jurist’s discretion and objectivity in providing a fair tribunal for litigants.

Documenting Resolution

Once a resolution is reached in a mediation or a judgment is rendered in an arbitration, we will see the case through to its complete conclusion with follow up procedures that are standard for every case – no matter the size.

What is the Difference Between Mediation and Arbitration?

In a mediation, it is the job of the neutral (the mediator) to help the parties craft a resolution that is mutually acceptable to each of them.  Often, the parties in a mediation are in separate rooms, and the mediator goes back and forth between the rooms, conferring with the parties and their counsel concerning settlement offers and attempts to narrow the differences so that a settlement may be possible.

The mediator is not a judge, so it is not the role of the mediator to determine who is right.  Instead the primary role of the mediator is to help the parties reach a settlement that is acceptable to each of them.  An arbitrator, conversely, acts as a judge and will render a verdict based upon the evidence presented and the law.

If you are seeking an experience mediator or arbitrator, we would invite you to call our firm to learn more about our mediation and arbitration services.


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