Mediation: The Bridge to Settlement

James A Baker  knows what it takes to arrive at settlement. The process is informal, unlike a trial. Every effort is made to assist the parties in finding middle ground upon which settlement occurs.

Parties meet in separate rooms. A joint session only occurs when all parties agree to meet in the same room. Often, mediations start with a joint session used to establish the ground rules and an agenda. The joint session also helps define the issues and determines the parties’ positions.

Generally, during the process, parties move to separate caucuses. The mediator will carry messages—offers, counter offers, questions, demands, and proposals—between both sides to help the parties move closer to resolution.

James assists and guides the parties toward their own resolution. He does not decide the outcome, but serves the parties by helping them understand and focus on the important issues needed to reach a resolution.

James is skilled at sifting through the facts, emotions and individual interests of the parties involved to determine what the issues are and what a fair outcome could be for the parties.

James possesses expertise in  clarifying the issues and assessing the strengths and weaknesses of each party’s case. James also offers creative approaches and innovative solutions, while maintaining an unbiased perspective.

Connecting with clients so that they experience a reduced sense of stress and an increased understanding of why we do what we do in mediations is a specialty of James. Explaining the process and encouraging plaintiffs to listen to the counsel and advice of their attorney helps facilitate settlement.