How does virtual mediation work?
Virtual mediation is conducted on our secure videoconferencing platform. As in any mediation, the parties work through and resolve their issues privately, confidentially and outside of court. Proposals, documents and information are shared, discussed and edited in real time on the participants’ screens. The mediator acts as a neutral third party and helps find solutions that everyone finds acceptable.
How is it different from in-person mediation?
When it’s safe and practical we encourage in-person attendance at mediations. Sometimes that’s not possible. Fortunately, modern video conferencing is a very strong substitute for in-person mediation.
Travel and office visits are minimized or eliminated completely, and sessions can be attended from the comfort of home. Electronic notarization and document filing also save the participants time and travel.
Can I mediate virtually?
Working via telephone or video has long had a place in mediation. There have always been times where one or all of the participants in a mediation are unable to attend in-person. In the past, the biggest obstacle to virtual mediation was the participants’ inexperience with the technology.
Today most people are familiar with the experience of working and communicating virtually. So, if you’ve ever had a Zoom, Facetime, Google Meet, Webex or Skype call then you have what it takes for virtual mediation.
What types of issues are good candidates for virtual mediation?
Virtual mediation can be used to resolve any type of conflict between two or more people. It can be particularly useful when the parties know each other and have ongoing relationships, like spouses, siblings, parents, family and friends.