What best describes mediation?

• A. A form of ADR where disputes are submitted to a trained, uninvolved third party for assistance with solving a problem.
• B. A court proceeding with a judge.
• C. A method of arbitration that is always binding.
• D. A private negotiation with no third party.

Answer: (A)

Mediation centers on a neutral, trained third party who helps the disputing sides communicate and work toward a mutually acceptable solution. The mediator guides the discussion, clarifies interests, and helps generate possible options, but does not decide the outcome or impose terms. This makes mediation different from going to court, where a judge makes the decision, and from arbitration, where an arbitrator typically renders a binding decision. It’s also distinct from private negotiation with no third party, which lacks structured facilitation.