Conflicts can often be resolved without the time and expense of litigation. Ms. Azeredo has experience with both mediation (facilitated negotiation) and arbitration (adjudicated dispute).
Mediation
Mediation is essentially a facilitated negotiating process in which parties meet with a neutral third party (the mediator) to resolve the matter. The mediator works with both parties to learn whether there is a resolution that is mutually acceptable to both sides. If a resolution is reached as a result of the mediation, the parties sign an enforceable settlement agreement. This process is extremely valuable because it helps avoid the financial and emotional impact of litigation.
Arbitration
Arbitration is a contractual process for adjudicating disputes outside of court. It is mandated by contract. Both sides agree at the outset to abide by the decision of the arbitrator, an impartial decision maker who will decide the outcome of the dispute after listening to both parties. The arbitrator does not negotiate the outcome of the dispute like a mediator but instead reaches a conclusion in a manner similar to a judge. The arbitrator’s decision is binding on both parties. Nevertheless, the efficiency of arbitration can save parties the time, money, and stress they would incur from extended litigation.