Dispute Resolution · 6 min read
Mediation, arbitration, or court: choosing a path
Cost, speed, privacy, and finality differ sharply between the three main routes to resolving a dispute.
Mediation
A neutral mediator helps the parties negotiate. Nothing is imposed, discussions are generally confidential, and settlement is usually faster and cheaper than trial.
Arbitration
A private decision-maker issues a binding award. It is often quicker and more private than court, but appeal rights are very limited and costs can still be substantial.
Litigation
Court proceedings are public, slower, and more procedural, but they offer appeals, powerful discovery tools, and enforceable judgments.
Choosing
The right route depends on the relationship between the parties, the amounts involved, the need for privacy, and what any existing contract already requires.
This article is general information only and is not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship.