If you have recognized the potential to resolve your legal dispute outside of the courtroom, your next step is probably considering a mediator.  This is a really important decision, since a trained and experienced mediator is much more likely to draw you case to a conclusion in an efficient manner.  When you hire the right person, you can reap all the benefits of mediation without facing all of the downsides of litigation.

A mediator must first have excellent communication skills.  Especially in stalemate disputes, a mediator has to be able to get the parties talking.  When communication is not the focus, mediation is more likely to fail.  That’s why a good mediator will know how to guide the conversation and how to get it back on track when that is what’s needed.

A good mediator will have experience in alternative dispute resolution.  A great mediator will have some familiarity with the industry or nuts and bolts of the dispute in addition to mediation experience.  If you can find a professional, for example, who has helped numerous couples work through a divorce, that’s a good sign that you might experience success with him or her, too.Past experience is a great indicator of success rate, comfort with the topic at hand, and communication skills.  The mediator should also treat both parties with respect and should remain neutral throughout the length of the process.  This is one of the benefits of mediation that many disputing parties appreciate.

The next quality that a great mediator will possess is patience.  Hitting roadblocks is a big issue when it comes to parties embroiled in a legal dispute.  The mediator can be proceeding fine until one party makes a statement that the other doesn’t like, initiating an argument.  Putting those communication skills and patience to work, a mediator is going to be able to help people work through these challenges more effectively.  Flexibility, too, goes alongside patience.  A mediator should be able to see when a particular tactic isn’t working or when two parties are gridlocked on a certain issue.  Being open to trying new ideas and helping that transition go smoothly is important for everyone involved in the mediation session.

Choosing a mediator is crucial – it can help to bring about a better, faster solution to your dispute and provide an alternative forum for working through the issues.  Make sure you vet the professional you’re hiring for your mediation needs.