A court case can be a lengthy process, exhausting those involved emotionally, physically and even spiritually. As you consider your options when it comes to your employment discrimination case, know that court isn’t the only avenue in which to pursue your claim. Thousands of Equal Employment Opportunity cases are handled outside the courts through mediation. You may find this process easier, saving you time, money and energy.
What is Mediation?
Mediation is a process through which a dispute is settled through mutual agreement of both of the parties involved. The parties get together in the presence of a mediator, discuss the case, and through analysis come to an agreement regarding what the outcome of the dispute should be. Mediation through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, as in all mediation cases, must be a voluntary process for both parties.
How the EEOC Handles Mediation
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission selects cases for mediation, and then proceeds with the mediation process through meetings at mutually agreed upon times and places. Many participants in the EEOC mediation process claim a successful outcome. If a mutual agreement is reached, then that agreement is legally binding.
A Simpler, More Straightforward Process
Mediation, put simply, cuts out the headaches and turmoil of litigation. It is often a shorter process, enabling both parties to put the pain of the discrimination claim behind them as soon as possible. In addition, mediation is often more satisfying to both parties. While attorneys should be present during the mediation process, mediation tends to be less of a burden for all involved than litigation.
Other Reasons to Mediate
One key advantage of mediation is privacy. Individuals are not forced to go through the very public nature of a day in court. Embarrassing events and details can be discussed at length, in private, with no fear of public consequences.
You Still Need an Attorney
Whether or not you choose to move forward with the mediation process, you should still have an attorney standing by your side through the process. As mentioned above, mediation is just as legally binding as a court case, and as such should be treated with the same gravity and respect.
For the best employment attorney help available, call the Law Offices of Valli, Kane & Vagnini. You need an expert team of attorneys with decades of experience in employment law to help ensure your mediation or litigation is completed successfully. Call now to discuss how Valli, Kane & Vagnini can help.
