What is the difference between mediation and arbitration?

In both mediation and arbitration, the parties bring their dispute to a third party. In arbitration, the parties communicate only with the arbitrator, and the arbitrator decides what should happen. In mediation, the parties speak with the mediator and each other. The mediator does not decide what should happen, but assists the participants to reach an agreement that is acceptable to both parties.

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1. What is the typical outcome of mediation?
2. When should I mediate?
3. How much time will mediation take?
4. How much will mediation cost?
5. What is the difference between mediation and arbitration?
6. What if the other side is reluctant to agree to mediate?
7. What if the other party is reluctant to reach a settlement?
8. How can mediation work if the other side is mean spirited, unreasonable, and we just can’t talk to each other?
9. What if we just can't be in the same room?
10. Will mediation work if I don't want to compromise?
11. Is an agreement reached in mediation enforceable?
12. Who are mediation services available to?
13. Where does Placer Dispute Resolution mediate?
14. How do I make a mediation happen?