FAQ: What Is Mediation?

Zena Zumeta, a leader in Michigan and nationally in the field of Mediation, shared her favorite definition of “Mediation,” 

 In Australia, The National Mediator Accreditation System (NMAS) defines mediation in the National Practice Standards as:

 ' ... a process that promotes the self-determination of participants and in which

participants, with the support of a mediator:

(a) communicate with each other, exchange information and seek understanding

(b) identify, clarify and explore interests, issues and underlying needs

(c) consider their alternatives

(d) generate and evaluate options

(e) negotiate with each other; and

(f) reach and make their own decisions.

 A mediator does not evaluate or advise on the merits of, or determine the outcome of, disputes'.

Zena recommends the book from which the definition is taken, Mediating With Families, authored by Linda Fisher and Mieke Brandon.

To learn more about Zena Zumeta and the Mediation Training & Consultation Institute, visit: www.learn2mediate.com and www.zenazumetamediation.com.

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1  More specifically, family dispute resolution has been defined under the Family Law Act 1975 as: 'a process (other than a judicial process): in which a family dispute resolution practitioner helps people affected, or likely to be affected, by separation or divorce to resolve some or all of their disputes with each other; and in which the practitioner is independent of all of the parties involved in the process'.

2  The definition does not prescribe the dispute resolution process to be used, the room in which it should be conducted, or whether lawyers should be in attendance.

PLEASE NOTE: This blog is not intended to constitute legal, financial or tax advice.  We do not recommend making important decisions without the benefit of specific legal or professional advice addressing your issues and concerns.  We at Banfield Couling Law and Mediation PLLC are here to help navigate your legal matter at any stage of your divorce or family law matter.