Benefits of Early Mediation

Benefits to Attorneys

• The attorney builds trust with the client, because the client sees and is involved with early substantive progress in the case
• The attorney can establish a relationship with the mediator, allowing more substantive discussions of the case
• Mediation can be used as a case management tool, resulting in a more streamlined and cooperative process and a reduced need for time-consuming motions practice
• The mediator has a more complete understanding of the case, allowing her to assist the parties in creating customized and mutually beneficial outcomes

Benefits to Parties

• Parties are able to see early substantive progress in their case
• The costs of litigation are correlated with action and progress on the case, rather than seen as a waste of money
• Options generated in a cooperative effort by parties and their attorneys may be more likely to be considered
• Parties may be able to express underlying needs and interests in order to arrive at customized and durable agreements
• Parties are not limited by the options and remedies that can be awarded by the courts

Interested in learning more about early mediation? Click here to read about the Washington State Bar Association's efforts regarding early mediation, including the Early Mediation Task Force.