Mediation of a dispute typically involves using a neutral third party to act in the role of a guide, a negotiator, or someone who might she differing viewpoints upon a situation. They may or may not be a member of the legal profession, but are required to hear both sides of the dispute, then meet with the parties, and focus on a mutually beneficial solution to the issue. Mediation is less formal than arbitration, and tries to ensure that parties "really want a solution" to the issues and will work to find said solution. Arbitration, however, usually requires a judge or attorney, and is similar to a court proceeding. Often, both sides must agree to the decision by the arbitrator to be binding, and typically, arbitration avoids lengthy trial proceedings. In arbitration, both sides state their position, witnesses may be called, and the arbitrator can probe both sides as appropriate...
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