Struggling with a legal dispute is often overwhelming. The thought of taking the matter to litigation may seem intimidating, time-consuming, and stressful—not to mention costly. However, Oklahoma offers alternative dispute resolution options that can resolve your legal issue outside the courtroom. Mediation is a form of dispute resolution that encourages the disputing parties to negotiate a mutually workable solution with the guidance of a professionally trained, neutral third party, known as the mediator. At Outhier & Caruthers PLLC, our experienced mediator is committed to helping both parties reach a successful resolution in a timely, cost-effective manner.
Understanding the Mediation Process in Oklahoma
Unlike a traditional courtroom, mediation does not require the disputing parties to make their cases before a judge. Instead, the mediator serves as a facilitator who encourages the parties to work together to resolve their legal matter. The mediator does not issue a ruling or influence the outcome; once the parties have arrived at a resolution, the mediator helps them put the agreement in writing, formally concluding the process. As disagreements arise during the negotiation process, the mediator will step in with communication tools and techniques to help the parties work through these issues. The mediator often encourages the parties to focus on their common goal—a mutually beneficial solution achieved through compromise.
A Satisfying and Empowering Process
There are several benefits to the mediation process. Litigation consumes a considerable amount of time and resources, as the parties must work with the court’s busy schedule. In contrast, mediation involves fewer parties and takes place in a more relaxed environment. Many people feel more at ease outside of the courtroom, as the informal atmosphere encourages them to open up and take a more active role in shaping the outcome. Parties who have resolved their disputes through mediation often feel more satisfied with the outcome, as they’ve directly influenced the resolution. Of course, if the parties cannot resolve their issue through mediation, they may choose to move the matter to litigation at any time. Whether you are interested in mediation for disputes involving divorce, child support, real estate, or another type of civil dispute, our mediator is here to guide you through the process.
