Mediation is an method to resolve disputes outside the court system.  Mediation is a process using professionals trained in law, communication and dispute resolution.  The Mediator acts as a neutral party to facilitate an agreement.  The Mediator as a neutral takes no position in the dispute, but encourages the parties to discuss the facts in such a way as to allow the parties themselves to seek and resolve their own disputes. 

   Mediation is one of a variety of types of alternative dispute resolution.  In Tennessee Mediators are generally referred to as Rule 31 Mediators since the Tennessee Supreme Court approves trained mediators pursuant to Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31.

   Mediation is a session or sessions in which the parties to the dispute meet with the Mediator to resolve the dispute.  Each Mediator has a slightly different style, but generally speaking each party has the opportunity to be fully heard during a mediation session.  After the parties have each had the opportunity to present their views the parties then decide what their goal(s) for the mediation will be and then work toward those goals under the guidance of the Mediator.