My comments today were focused on divorce mediation, a service that really helps couples get through a stressful process, in a less stressful and costly way. I think it is worth making a few points about other types of mediation, such as Real Estate.
With San Diego real estate prices going down and houses staying on the market for a long time before selling, many people are finding themselves in disputes with real estate agents or buyers who back out of deals. Real estate contracts in California have clauses that require the parties to go to mediation or arbitration before going to court, for many issues. This is really an advantage for the parties as they can address their issues more quickly and for a lot less money than litigation would cost. Again, it is important to remember, that a solution is not imposed on them. There is only a resolution if both parties agree, and they can craft their agreement with more creative solutions than the court can order.
Mediators with expertise in real estate law and procedures help the parties talk about how the issues at hand affected them and explore their underlying interests. They can then move past their anger or frustration and come to practical agreements that allow them to move on with their lives.
— ROBIN SEIGLE