Mediation is the process of two or more parties in a disagreement working with a neutral third party to find an amicable solution. While the best mediators help the parties toward that solution, the agreement is proposed by the parties themselves.

Mediation is often a means to resolve legal disputes in a cost-efficient manner. Mediation allows parties to face each other in a more relaxed setting and to address their differences without the order of a court or the expense of litigation. Even where court proceedings have already begun, judges may send parties to mediation before the litigation progresses too far in an effort to save costs.

The rules of evidence do not apply and there is no witness testimony. Mediation may take one or several sessions. Subject to certain exceptions, mediation is confidential. Matt Vaughn and Hugh Stevens are a North Carolina certified mediators and can serve as that third party facilitator.