Frequently Asked Questions
-
Vance Dispute Resolution provides mediation and arbitration services for a wide range of matters, including commercial and business disputes, contract issues, employment and labor matters, construction disputes, professional liability, intellectual property, and personal injury-related disputes.
-
Mediation at Vance Dispute Resolution focuses on helping parties see realistic views of their interests, evaluate positions, and explore options for resolution. The mediator facilitates a structured discussion, assists in developing practical solutions, and helps parties avoid litigation when possible.
-
Item descriptionMediation is a voluntary, confidential process in which a neutral facilitator helps parties discuss their dispute and work toward a mutually acceptable agreement. It does not require court involvement, and the mediator does not decide the outcome.
-
Mediation provides a neutral, confidential setting for open discussion, gives parties control over the outcome, and is generally less costly and time-consuming than litigation. It also allows parties to craft tailored solutions that may not be available in court.
-
All parties involved in the dispute attend mediation with the neutral mediator. Parties may also choose to have attorneys or advocates present. Mediation can be conducted in person, virtually, or through mobile mediation depending on the parties’ preferences.
-
Yes. Mediation discussions are confidential when all parties agree, and communications during mediation are generally protected from use in court or other proceedings.
-
The time required varies with the nature of the dispute and the parties’ readiness to engage. Many mediations are completed in a single session, but additional sessions can be scheduled if needed.
-
Before mediation, parties should evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of their positions and consider areas of compromise. The mediator will provide guidance on any information or documentation that should be prepared in advance.
-
Unless agreed otherwise, the cost of mediation is typically shared equally by the parties. In some cases, one party may agree to cover the full cost as part of a resolution agreement.
-
Mobile mediation refers to traditional in-person mediation where the mediator travels to a location agreed upon by the parties, such as an attorney’s office or corporate meeting room. It provides convenience and flexibility, particularly for workplace or civil disputes.
-
Yes. Virtual mediation sessions use secure, encrypted communication tools (such as Zoom or Teams) and follow professional cybersecurity guidelines to protect confidentiality.
-
Workplace mediation is tailored to resolving interpersonal and organizational conflicts within a work environment. The mediator helps employees and employers address issues like communication breakdowns, performance conflicts, and workplace grievances while preserving professional relationships.
-
Item descriptiIn workplace matters, the employer often arranges and pays for mediation to support workplace harmony and prevent costly disputes. Parties may also agree to share costs.on
-
Yes. Al Vance serves as an arbitrator and is appointed to arbitration panels, including those for national dispute resolution organizations.
-
In mediation, a neutral facilitator helps parties work toward a voluntary agreement. In arbitration, a neutral arbitrator hears evidence and presentations and issues a binding decision. Arbitration is more structured and similar to a private decision-making process outside of court.
-
To begin, the parties agree on a date, time, and format (virtual, in person, or mobile). From there, one party schedules the session through Vance Dispute Resolution or by reaching out via email to discuss specific needs.