Resolving business disputes is more than getting financial compensation. Every business relationship involves setbacks and misunderstandings. However, business partners are interested in continuing their mutually beneficial cooperation. For that reason, resolving business disputes in litigation never brings positive results. As an adversarial process, litigation is always about conquering the other side – never about reconciling the parties. You may receive financial compensation, but your business cooperation is yesterday’s news. That is why business entities prefer mediation over litigation. As an out-of-court non-adversarial method, mediation aims to resolve disputes while preserving business relationships.

But not every mediation is successful in bringing you a positive outcome. The success of mediation largely depends on the mediators and their approach to business dispute resolution. Unfortunately, it is not easy to find a well-versed mediator. To help you increase your chances of a successful end to your dispute, here are the steps you need to take searching for the most experienced business mediator near you.

Look around you

Never neglect the location of your prospective mediator. Remember that the simplicity of the mediation process depends on the reachability of the mediator. It is vital to choose a mediator reachable to both parties. Getting to mediation sessions should be easy for both disputed parties and should not impose an additional financial burden on anyone involved.

Think about the costs

The costs of mediation vary depending on the location of the mediator and travel expenses. There is no doubt that mediation is far more convenient than litigation cost-vise. Nevertheless, you should always seek information from the prospective candidate regarding the costs. Ask how your potential mediator charges their services – by the hour or by day? Be clear about who bears the costs. In other words, do the parties split the costs. Additionally, does your prospective mediator charge travel time?

Define your expectations

Know what you expect from the mediator. Do you seek a professional mediator or a subject matter expert? Be aware that subject matter experts can better understand the specific field of dispute, but they lack sophisticated mediating skills. Conversely, professional mediators can grasp the specifics of various fields, bringing invaluable experience in mediating the disputed business parties. Therefore, you should always give an advantage to certified mediators with years of experience.

Do your research

Be meticulous about your search for the best mediator. Look through lists of local mediators and check their credentials. While you should use online search engines, never rely solely on the Internet results. Some attorneys and mediators invest large amounts of money in creating a positive public impression. But the quality of their service does not necessarily follow. To corroborate online search results, check with your friends, attorneys, and other professionals you know. Always look at the way how your prospective candidate handled the past cases.

Learn about their ethics and work approach

Before choosing the mediator, always check their integrity and ethical standards. Especially pay attention to their confidentiality and neutrality. If your prospective mediator has a record of disclosing confidential information to the other party or the public, they are probably not the best choice. Likewise, a personal or professional relationship with the opposite party is not the best recommendation. In addition, learn about your potential mediator work approach. Inquire about their mediation style. Do they stay passive in facilitating the negotiations, or do they engage actively in proposing specific solutions?

Why Hal Wotitzky?

Mr. Hal Wotitzky has been a certified Florida mediator since 1994, and over his long career, he has successfully mediated thousands of disputes.

Mr. Wotitzky has a proven record in resolving disputes originating from various fields. His practice includes the following areas: insurance disputes, commercial disputes, real estate disputes, and contract disputes. Furthermore, his expertise covers HOA disputes, construction disputes, business disputes, personal injury disputes, probate disputes, real estate brokerage disputes, wrongful death disputes, trade secrets, corporate disputes and dissolutions, and intellectual property disputes.

With Mr. Wotitizky, you get a top-notch mediator committed to bringing you just compensation and reconciliation at the same time.

He serves his clients in Charlotte County, Sarasota County, Collier County, and Lee County and throughout Florida. Mr. Wotitzky utilizes Zoom video conferencing in addition to in-person mediations. Call today to schedule your appointment.