SELF-REPRESENTED
Kitchen Table Agreement
Description: The idea that a problem or conflict can be resolved in a reasonable “kitchen table” style, where parties sit and compromise to terms that are both amicable and desirable to both parties in disagreement. Pros: amicable, preserves relationships, inexpensive, convenient, no legal bills. Cons: only works if both parties agree to process; difficult if complex situation or not organized, lacks structure and legal representation
LAWYER OR SELF-REPRESENTED
Mediation
Description: It's a dynamic, structured and interactive process where a neutral third party assists disputing parties in resolving conflict or the process of hiring a third party that’s neutral and provides assistance in resolving conflict. Can be a psychologist, financial professional, lawyer, retired judge. Pros: structured, provides a third party, relevant facts, mutual agreements, common ground. Cons: can be biased, expensive, might not work for all, only works if both parties agree to process
LAWYER OR SELF-REPRESENTED
Arbitration
Description: Another structured process that involves a 3rd party to make decisions if parties are unable to come to a conclusion. They are to settle disputes and prevent any more conflict, their job is to take agreeance into another level past a mediator. Pros: can select arbitrator, legally bound, structure, findings from arbitrator can be converted to court orders for MEP. Cons: expensive, can be biased; if arbitrators unregulated, can be tailored to specific situation; problematic if arbitrator lacks skills and experience for the specific situation
LAWYER OR SELF-REPRESENTED
Court
Description: the act of taking the matter to court for resolution Pros: bound by law, public records Cons: time consuming, expensive, problematic if judge lacks skills and experience relevant to the specific situation