Mediation is a voluntary alternative dispute resolution process in which a neutral third party helps parties reach a negotiated settlement. It has several benefits such as being informal, quick, flexible, cost effective, and allowing parties to maintain control and privacy. Mediation is most useful when parties are committed to the process and preserving an ongoing relationship is important. The mediator's role is to facilitate understanding between parties and help generate and evaluate settlement options. A typical mediation session involves opening statements, issue identification, exploring interests, and generating solutions to help parties reach a legally binding agreement.