As with most aspects relating to the practice of law, there are many traits that differentiate one legal professional from another. For example, successful litigators can be aggressive or soft-spoken. Mediators can be pushy or patient. The key is to finding what works for you and your practice. As a former litigator turned mediator, I have witnessed that characteristics such as patience, creativity, perseverance promote a resolution that makes all parties happy. Regardless of a mediator’s personality type, I have noticed one trait that consistently tops the list from both clients and mediators as being a key ingredient to success… Integrity.
Integrity as a mediator means follow-through in word and action. If I say I will do something during the course of the mediation, I will do it. The parties can trust that I will keep my word, thereby ensuring that at least one aspect of the mediation process will be a smooth one. We have all been in the midst of a negotiation where we cannot be certain of what is the truth and what is not — and it is not a satisfying or comforting experience, nor one I intend to produce during my mediations.
Bruce A. Friedman is a mediator with a national practice. With years of litigation experience behind him, he understands the goals of the mediation process and will do his best to ensure that the needs of both parties are met, justly and efficiently. For more information on the mediation services that Bruce A. Friedman provides, check out his website at <http://www.FriedmanMediation.
