Arbitrators usually are attorneys or
businesspeople with expertise in a particular field. In arbitration,
parties identify, in advance, the issues to be resolved, the scope of
the relief to be awarded, and many of the procedural aspects of the
process. Mediators are neutral parties who help people to resolve their
disputes outside of court. Parties to a dispute often use mediators when
they wish to preserve their relationship. A mediator may offer
suggestions, but resolution of the dispute rests with the parties
themselves. Mediation proceedings also are confidential and private.
