You might ask, what is Mediation and what does a Mediator do? 

"Mediation is a Voluntary and Confidential process supervised by a Mediator who is impartial and non-directive and whose job it is to allow the parties to speak and listen to one another in an atmosphere of trust and respect.  It allows the parties to come together in finding a solution to their differences that might not be accomplished in a court room.  Keep in mind that there is no final Mediation if the parties do not mutually agree to a resolution/agreement.  It is important to understand that Mediation is not the same as arbitration.   Mediation is only complete when both parties agree to the resolution.  In arbitration, an arbitrator hears from both sides and hands down a decision that can not be overturned, by either party or the courts.

The advantages of Mediation are: less cost, a lot less time and the ability to craft a true agreement that might not be accomplished by a judge.  Typically a judge will find in favor of one party or the other, working to determine who prevails.  Also, keep in mind that anything said in Mediation is not allowed in a court of law, it is confidential."