Finding Your "Inner Mediator"

A hack towards greater objectivity in resolving disputes.

Photo by Dave Hoefler on Unsplash

“Always assume you don’t completely understand something. It will foster humility and create more opportunities to learn.”

— Mark Manson

In Search of Objectivity

Attorneys on either side of a lawsuit, under our adversarial legal system, oppose each other in the courtroom. One attorney argues for her client’s interests, and the opposing counsel argues on behalf of his client. The judge and jury hear the evidence, consider the arguments of the plaintiff and defendant, and render a decision.

Arbitration and mediation are alternatives to traditional courtroom processes that can provide enhanced efficiency and flexibility. Instead of going to court, parties can present their case to an arbitrator, who acts as a private judge in a more informal proceeding. At mediation, parties engage in structured negotiations, led by a neutral, third party — the mediator — and seek to resolve their dispute by mutual agreement.

Let’s face it: If people could resolve these matter…