Mediation and ADR
Mediation
A process in which a neutral mediator helps the parties communicate and negotiate so they can reach their own voluntary agreement. The mediator doesn't decide the dispute.[1][2]
In more detail
This is how the Uniform Mediation Act defines it.[1] Florida's statute adds that mediation is informal and nonadversarial and that decision-making authority stays with the parties.[2] It is the ADR method most commonly used in the federal district courts.[3] Mediation can happen before a lawsuit, during one, or after a judgment, and can be private or court-ordered.
Varies by state
States define mediation in similar words, but the rules on confidentiality, who can mediate and court referral differ. Find your state’s rules.
Related terms
- MediatorA neutral, impartial person who conducts a mediation and helps the parties reach their own agreement, without deciding the dispute.
- ArbitrationA process in which a neutral person or panel, the arbitrator, hears each side's facts and arguments and then decides the dispute.
- Alternative dispute resolution (ADR)Ways of resolving a legal dispute without a trial, such as mediation, arbitration, early neutral evaluation and settlement conferences.
- Self-determinationThe parties' right to make voluntary, uncoerced and informed decisions in mediation, including whether to settle and on what terms.
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Sources
The official documents this definition is based on, with the date we last read each one. Definitions are in our own words.
General information, not legal advice. MediationList is not a law firm. Spotted an error? Tell us.
Cite this page
MediationList. (2026, October 28). Mediation: Definition. https://mediationlist.com/glossary/mediation/
APA 7th ed. A retrieval date is included only for pages whose content changes, such as maps, data and tools.