What is Mediation? Mediation is a private and confidential out-of-court process in which a neutral mediator helps the parties to negotiate and resolve their dispute. Although mediation is a non-binding procedure, once an agreement is reached and documented, that agreement is binding and legally enforceable. Mediation is an effective procedure for resolving disputes that cannot be resolved through direct, unassisted negotiations. A trained and skilled mediator can help the parties resolve their disagreements and settle their disputes without incurring the time, expense and other adverse personal and business consequences resulting from traditional, prolonged court litigation. 

Blended Mediation: Alternatively, we recommend Blended Mediation which incorporates mediation and arbitration techniques. Here, the Mediator mediates disputed case issues but can also give opinions on case issues, when asked. For example, in an injury case, an opinion on liability and an indication of the likely amount of damages or compensation that a Court might award. Although advisory only and not binding, the Mediator's opinion carries great moral weight when he is a retired District Judge and can assist the parties in settling their case. The parties retain the flexibility to reject the Mediator's opinion and proceed to litigation in Court, however, that option is protracted and expensive. The comparative advantage rests with Mediation.

Judge Granier's former law practice included representation of both Plaintiffs and Defendants. In mediating a case Judge Granier acts as a third-party neutral to assist the parties in resolving their dispute and does not represent any party in the Mediation.