"I believe the mediation process greatly benefits disputing parties by giving them ultimate control over the outcome of their case." Lawsuits tend to polarize the parties involved, often fueling the flames of conflict and impeding resolution. When a case goes to trial, neither side really wins. Instead, both sides commit a vast amount of time, energy, and money towards a very uncertain outcome. Mediation can achieve a win / win result, ensuring that a mutually beneficial relationship will outlast the conflict. Litigation, on the other hand, rarely satisfies either party, seldom addresses the underlying causes of the conflict and has the potential to destroy an otherwise positive relationship. As a lawyer since 1975, I bring a unique balance of experience to the mediation table. My knowledge of the law in many diverse areas, my AV rating, extensive trial experience (representing both plaintiffs and defendants), coupled with my experience as an Arbitrator, Mediator a nd Judge Pro-Tem, is why I'm often the mediator of choice for both plaintiff and defense attorney. Stephen M. Fuerch, Attorney at Law / Mediator