When business relationships turn rancorous, several things can happen. One or more parties to the dispute may file a lawsuit. The parties may try to negotiate the problem by themselves. Another option is to use an alternative dispute resolution method, like arbitration or mediation. Understanding the benefits of business mediation can help you decide the best way to handle business disagreements.
Protects Your Privacy Better than Litigation
For the most part, documents filed during litigation become public record. There are some exceptions. For example, documents might be filed under seal so they can only be viewed by the other attorneys and the judge. In fact, some materials may be so sensitive that only the judge views them. Still, the fact that you filed something under seal does become public notice.
Mediation sessions are private. While documents may be reviewed by the parties and the mediator, what happens in mediation is supposed to stay in mediation.
Business Mediation Usually Saves Money
Litigation is expensive. Between necessary attorney’s fees, court costs, and business-related expenses, a lawsuit can cost many thousands of dollars.
A business mediation session generally takes less time and money than a typical business lawsuit.
Puts You Back at Work More Quickly
Most of the time, you probably would rather be working than spending time in your lawyer’s office preparing for a deposition. Even worse, cases that go to trial could keep you occupied for days or weeks.
Additionally, court hearings and trials are scheduled based on the court’s requirements, not yours. So, a legal dispute that starts in 2018 might not go to trial or get settled until 2020.
With business mediation, you and the other parties schedule a time that’s mutually convenient. Mediation sessions may last half a day, a full day, or a couple of days, if absolutely necessary.
Gives You Some Control Over the Process
When you file a lawsuit, the clerk assigns your case to a judge. Generally, you can’t pick and choose who you would like to take your case. If there’s an actual conflict, you might ask the judge to recuse himself or herself, but you usually have to take whoever you get.
With a business mediation, you and the other parties can agree on who will hear your case. If your legal disagreement involves a highly technical matter, you may find a mediator who already knows about your industry and may understand the issues better than a judge who does not.
The Benefits of Business Mediation Are Clear
Attorney Richard Sierra at the Florida Small Business Center assists clients like you with business and litigation matters. As always, Our Goal Is to Help You Succeed™. For an appointment, you may call us at 1-866-842-5202 or use the contact form on our website. we represent clients throughout South Florida, including Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Pompano Beach, Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and surrounding communities.