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How does mediation differ from arbitration?

Last Updated: March 25, 2008

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In mediation, the conflicting parties make any and all agreements. In arbitration, the arbitrator makes the decisions. Mediation leaves the choice with the conflicting parties, not with an outside force.

Agreements in mediation are more likely to be followed, as opposed to court orders or an arbitrator's decision, because the individuals involved are the decision makers.

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