Mediation empowers couples to reach agreements, while arbitration involves a third-party decision maker

Mediation and arbitration are both alternatives to traditional court proceedings, but they function quite differently. In mediation, couples work together with a neutral mediator to negotiate and reach mutually acceptable solutions. With arbitration, an appointed arbitrator reviews evidence and makes binding decisions, similar to a judge.

Key differences include:

• In mediation, couples maintain control over decisions and outcomes
• Arbitration involves presenting formal evidence and testimony
• Mediators facilitate discussion, while arbitrators make final rulings
• Mediation promotes communication and cooperation between parties
• Arbitration decisions are typically binding and enforceable by law