Unlike other forms of conflict disposition, a voluntary mediation contains no surprises. A preliminary joint conference call establishes the methods of proceeding, the "ground rules" of the mediation and all other vital information you can share with your client, who will be grateful for being kept informed.

You know the strengths and weaknesses of your position. In all likelihood, so does your opponent. Voluntary mediation affords the opportunity for a neutral voice, experienced in the nuances of your type of dispute, to give you a fresh and unbiased perspective which will assist you and your client in coming to a reasoned resolution.

It is the parties' decision to mediate, and the parties' decision to resolve the dispute. There is no "judgment" of your case, and no pressure. The mediator facilitates the position of each side, and commits to the process, no matter how long it takes. Voluntary mediation is genuinely a "no risk" effort to end the dispute.