Why Mediation?
Mediation fosters cooperation instead of confrontation.
Parties make their own decisions rather than leaving critical decisions about their lives and children to a judge.
Mediation is generally cheaper than litigation because it avoids long court battles, extensive discovery, and multiple hearings.
Unlike public court proceedings, mediation is private, keeping sensitive topics and matters out of public record.
Participants are more likely to follow an agreement they helped create, and it supports better long-term relationships.
Parties can develop creative, tailored solutions that meet their specific needs, which a court might not offer.
Maryland Title 17 Alternative Dispute Resolution and Maryland Mediation Confidentiality Act
Mediation is defined as a process in which the parties work with one or more impartial mediators who, without providing legal advice, assist the parties in reaching their own voluntary agreement for the resolution of all or part of a dispute.
A mediator may help identify issues and options, assist the parties and their attorneys in exploring the needs underlying their respective positions, and, upon request, record point of agreement expressed and adopted by the parties.
A mediator and any person present or otherwise participating in the mediation shall maintain the confidentiality of all mediation communications and may not disclose or be compelled to disclose mediation communications in any judicial, administrative, or other proceeding. Further, Cheyenne’s Mediation Compass, LLC requires that all parties and participants enter into a written agreement to maintain the confidentiality of all mediation communications.
A Circuit Court may order a party and the party's attorney to participate in mediation for a fee-for-service. Alternatively, individuals can choose to participate in mediation without a court order for a private fee.