Resolve a dispute through a structured, neutral conversation.
A neutral mediator helps the people involved discuss the dispute, identify the issues, explore possible solutions, and work toward an agreement they create themselves.
What happens after you contact Edgewater.
You will understand the process before any session is scheduled.
- 01
Tell us what happened
A short request in plain language. No legal filing, no forms to decode.
- 02
We contact the other party
They're invited to participate and told what mediation is and is not.
- 03
If everyone agrees, mediation is scheduled
In person or online, at a time arranged with both sides.
- 04
You meet with a neutral mediator and explore possible resolution
Issues get named, options get tested, and any agreement is yours — not the mediator's.
Worth being clear about
- Mediation is voluntary — anyone can stop participating.
- The mediator does not decide who is right or wrong.
- The mediator does not give legal advice.
- The people involved make the decisions.
Most everyday disputes between people who still have to deal with each other.
- Money disputes
- Business disputes
- Landlord / tenant
- Contractor disputes
- Neighbor problems
- Workplace issues
- Family / personal conflict
- Other civil disputes
Not sure if your situation fits?
Tell Us What’s HappeningA predictable shape, so nothing blindsides you.
Every mediation is different, but the structure is familiar. No one is asked to perform, and no one is put on the spot.
- 01Introductions
- 02Ground rules
- 03Each person explains their perspective
- 04Issues are identified
- 05Options are explored
- 06Private caucuses may be used where appropriate
- 07If agreement is reached, terms may be documented
Mediation does not guarantee settlement. Whether an agreement is reached is entirely up to the people involved.
Clearing up the common mix-ups.
- Not a courtroom
- Not arbitration
- Not legal representation
- Not someone deciding who wins
Sometimes another path is the right one.
We would rather tell you that early than take you through a process that cannot help.
- One party is unwilling to participate
- There are immediate safety concerns
- There is serious coercion or intimidation
- Urgent legal relief is needed, such as a court order or a filing deadline
- Certain highly complex legal matters
If there is any immediate danger
Contact 911 or local emergency services. Mediation is not appropriate where anyone is being threatened or is unsafe.
If you may need legal help
Court deadlines, formal filings, and questions about your rights belong with a licensed attorney or a legal aid organization in your area. Our guides explain where to look.
Read your optionsQuestions people ask.
A process built around clarity, neutrality, and choice.
The process is explained first
Before anything begins, you know what the steps are, who is involved, and what happens next.
Participation is voluntary
Where a process depends on both sides — like mediation — no one is required to continue.
Confidentiality is discussed up front
Expectations about privacy are talked through with everyone before a mediation session begins.
Neutral facilitation
A mediator does not take sides and does not decide who is right or wrong.
Plain-language communication
No jargon. If something is unclear, we explain it in ordinary words.
No legal advice
Edgewater Mediation Group LLC is not a law firm. We do not advise you on the law or represent you.
Edgewater Mediation Group LLC is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Services do not create an attorney-client relationship.
Tools, guides, and next steps.
Free worksheets you can fill out today, plain-language guides, and the other paths available if this one is not the fit.
Mediation needs both sides. If the other person says no, you can still work on your own next move one-on-one.
Explore that insteadNot sure this is the right path?
Answer a few plain-language questions and we’ll point you somewhere useful.
Ready to see if mediation may fit?
Tell us what happened. We'll explain what would happen next before anything is scheduled.
Private. Practical. No legal jargon required.