Seattle Mediation Attorneys Work to Help Clients Avoid Court
Washington firm handles alternative dispute resolution proceedings
The adversarial nature of litigation usually adds to the burden faced by parties to a legal dispute. However, if you’re represented by a Seattle mediation attorney at Mann & Kytle, PLLC, you might be able to use this method of alternative dispute resolution to reach an agreement that can be formalized in a written contract before having to file suite or submitted to the court to settle a lawsuit. Our firm can represent your interests before a knowledgeable, neutral third party who will strive to bridge the gap between you and your opponent in pursuit of a mutually agreeable outcome.
What does a mediation attorney do?
A skillful mediation attorney is a strong advocate for their client while remaining open to guidance of the mediator. We know that your well-being isn’t just based on the terms of the final order. During mediation, our firm blends assertive representation with a firm commitment to achieving consensus and minimizing everyone’s stress.
Seattle attorneys help clients take advantage of mediation’s benefits
Regardless of how far apart the parties might seem, mediation often can be successful while offering numerous advantages over litigation, such as:
- Cost — Trials and administrative hearings require extensive preparation and possibly ancillary costs related to discovery, expert witnesses and evidence gathering. Mediation is much more efficient because most of the expense and effort is focusing on resolving the differences between the parties.
- Privacy — Many people feel uncomfortable speaking about sexual harassment, severe medical problems and other personal matters. Through alternative dispute resolution, you can discuss these sensitive issues in a private setting rather than in open court.
- Scheduling — Courts and government agencies such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and Washington State Human Rights Commission work on their own schedules. If you choose to bring your matter before a mediator, you can increase the likelihood of a prompt result that enables you to move forward. Some administrative agencies offer free mediation services that you can access and take advantage of with a knowledgeable attorney.
After learning about your situation and goals, we’ll help you decide whether mediation is the best option for your case.
What is the mediation process?
Each mediation is unique, but in most cases, the neutral third party will convene one or more sessions with the parties. To make the process run more efficiently, the mediator might require each side to bring certain relevant documents and highlight areas of dispute. As established members of the Washington legal community, we strive to select mediators with particular expertise in the areas of conflict. Should the mediation be successful, our firm prepares a settlement document that accurately reflects the agreed-upon terms.
Common mediation issues include employment law and personal injury disputes
Alternative dispute resolution methods can be useful in almost any type of legal conflict. As an established employment law firm, we’ve seen how mediation’s benefits are particularly suited to disagreements between workers and the companies that employ them. Going to court against your boss can be extremely intimidating and difficult. Through mediation, both employer and employee can feel that they have a stake in the decision and are in a better position to move on. Likewise, personal injury victims frequently also prefer mediation, which usually allows them to obtain a financial recovery more quickly and without having to testify in court or at a deposition.
What are common outcomes of mediation?
The goal in mediation is for both parties to reach consensus on the disputed terms. Even when there are serious conflicts, an effective mediator can often bring the sides together so that they can execute a settlement agreement. However, methods of alternative dispute resolution do not work in every case, so if a fair outcome cannot be reached through mediation, our firm is prepared to litigate actionable cases.
Contact a skillful Washington mediation attorney to schedule a consultation
Mann & Kytle, PLLC advocates on behalf of Washington clients during mediation proceedings. From our office in Downtown Seattle, we focus on employment disputes and personal injury claims. You can call 206-457-2057 or contact us online to speak with a seasoned lawyer.