Mediation & Arbitration
Conflict happens. Disputes can be difficult to resolve. Sometimes the best way to navigate the situation and arrive at a resolution is to enlist the help of professionals – unbiased third-party experts who can help you get through it and move on. Hacker Murphy can be that for you.
Resolution doesn’t have to mean going to court. In fact, we can help you avoid going to court if possible by counseling the disputing parties through mediation or arbitration. While both are forms of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), they are quite different in terms of the process and outcomes.
Finding a middle ground through mediation
If the parties are open to negotiation and finding common ground, mediation is typically the first approach. Mediation is a collaborative process involving a neutral mediator who facilitates discussion between the disputing parties. A member of the Hacker Murphy team can serve as that neutral facilitator. He or she does not make decisions for the parties but guides them toward a voluntary agreement. Mediation is typically quicker and cheaper than arbitration because it focuses on reaching a settlement rather than going through formal procedures.
Arbitration means accepting the award
If the disputing parties are far apart in their positions and it seems unlikely that an amicable solution can be reached, arbitration may be necessary. In arbitration, the neutral arbitrator listens to both sides and makes a decision, similar to a court judge. The decision, called an “award,” is usually binding and can be enforced by courts. Arbitration is a formal process that can be more time-consuming and costly than mediation, but it is still generally faster and less expensive than going to court.
The best choice leads to the best outcome
Choosing Hacker Murphy to help you resolve a dispute means you’re entrusting your case to a team of experienced and dedicated attorneys who follow a client-first philosophy. We take the time to listen to our clients, truly understand your needs and goals, and form an approach that is personalized to your situation. And our team is made up of good people who truly care about our clients and will provide compassionate support and guidance throughout the entire process.
But kindness should not be mistaken for weakness, as one well-known movie quote asserts. Hacker Murphy’s attorneys are seasoned professionals with a keen understanding of the process and a proven track record of successfully resolving disputes. We will work tirelessly until a favorable outcome is reached.
Take the first step to putting this dispute behind you; contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys.