Spencer & Taylor: Mediation

Mediation – An Important Tool for Emerging Issues
Resolution of disputes through the court systems has become more costly, more difficult and more frustrating, with as litigation has risen exponentially within the past few decades. Mediation is growing as a respected avenue to the successful resolution of disputes. Mediation is a non-adversarial and cooperative means of settling disputes more effectively and economically than through litigation.

Senior partner Lee Taylor was certified as a Mediator in 1995 and maintains his mediation practice in all areas of the law.

What is Mediation?
Mediation is a flexible and practical alternative to litigation. Going to court can be an expensive, stressful and frustrating way to resolve disputes or settle issues. Mediation can be often the first, best approach to problem-solving in a wide range of areas including domestic conflicts – from parent-teen to spousal and elder issues – insurance and liability issues, contract disputes, business matters and property settlements.

Mediation is collaborative, not argumentative. Where litigation typically produces a winner and a loser, mediation can enable good solutions that benefit everyone.

A mediator listens impartially, clarifies issues and helps generate solutions that work for all parties involved.
Mediation has been recommended by judges of district and circuit courts statewide, including Senior Justice Harry L. Carrico of the state Supreme Court. For more information about how mediation works in the state of Virginia, go to www.vamediation.org