If mediation is unsuccessful, parties typically proceed to litigation while building on mediation progress

When mediation does not result in a settlement, parties maintain their legal right to pursue other dispute resolution options. The mediation process still offers valuable benefits, even without reaching full agreement:

• Parties gain clearer understanding of key issues and opposing viewpoints
• The scope of disagreement often narrows, making future negotiations more focused
• Information exchanged during mediation can streamline subsequent legal proceedings
• Participants can pursue traditional litigation or explore other alternative dispute resolution methods