I recently had the incredible opportunity to share my passion for mediation and the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) profession with the Professionals in Human Resources Association (PIHRA) Ventura Chapter. The energy and enthusiasm of the group were infectious throughout the training, and I left the session feeling fulfilled, inspired, and grateful to have worked with such a knowledgeable audience. During this conversation, we explored the nuances of a complex topic: the differences between mediation and arbitration. During this conversation, I emphasized the importance of understanding the pros and cons of each approach, as well as the crucial role HR professionals play in participating in and supporting the processes.
My passion is illuminating the path to positive workplaces through accessible employment law education. Human resources professionals are on the front lines, so they need to understand the key differences to create optimal outcomes for both employees and employers. Let’s dive into a recap of this dynamic discussion!
ARW Speaks at the PIHRA Ventura Chapter to Discuss: What’s the Difference Between Mediation and Arbitration?
Last week, I had the pleasure of diving into the world of alternative dispute resolution with the dynamic group at PIHRA Ventura Chapter. I spoke at their monthly breakfast, exploring the differences between mediation and arbitration.
While different, mediation and arbitration both are forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and powerful tools for resolving conflicts.
Broadly speaking, mediation is a process where the parties work with a trained third-party mediator, aka a “neutral,” who assists the parties in resolving an existing or potential legal dispute outside of the court system. Mediation generally is a voluntary and confidential process.
Arbitration, on the other hand, involves a neutral third party who acts more like a judge and conducts a trial-like process. After hearing and considering all of the evidence presented by the parties, the arbitrator issues a final decision or award that is legally binding on the parties. Generally, an arbitrator’s decision is enforceable in court and not appealable.
The aim of this engagement was to provide human resources professionals a primer on ADR in the context of both pre-litigated and litigated employment law cases, highlighting the differences between both and unique-use cases to which they could apply them.
Understanding the nuances of these different ADR methods is invaluable, especially for human resources professionals, because they are the unsung heroes of the workplace. As such, it is crucial for them to understand, for everyone involved.
During this event, we also explored the benefits and drawbacks of mediation vs arbitration, current trends in the field, and the essential role HR professionals play in preparing for and participating in these processes.
Thought Leader, Professional Speaker, & Legal Commentator on Mediation and Arbitration
Understanding the difference between arbitration and mediation is essential. Whether you’re an employee, employer, or human resources professional, you never know when the threat of litigation will appear, and having a concrete understanding of the ADRs is essential to navigating a litigious landscape and choosing the best possible solution to reach an optimal outcome for everyone involved. As a thought leader and legal commentator on the differences between mediation and arbitration and all aspects of employment law and ADR, I am uniquely positioned and qualified to provide expert insight and analysis on all employment law issues. These issues can be complex, so you need a seasoned legal professional to shed light on them. My passion is being a beacon in uncertain times of transition that provides that light.
Employment Law Thought Leader & Professional Speaker on the Differences Between Mediation and Arbitration, Industry Trends, and Breaking Employment Law News
I am a former employment and labor law attorney turned mediator, ADR, and conflict resolution specialist who believes it is crucial to stay current with groundbreaking changes to employment law for employees and employers alike. My passion is educating the general public on recent developments in employment law and the workplace trends that impact them as a thought leader and legal commentator. As such, I am uniquely qualified to discuss the differences between mediation and arbitration, the unique role HR professionals play in these processes, and all aspects of ADRs and employment law. My more than 20 years of experience as a media legal analyst and contributor have led to my own radio show on Tavis Smiley’s KBLA Talk 1580, “Legal Lens with Angela Reddock.” I also am a regular speaker and blogger on employment law and issues related to the workplace.
Also, learn more about my book – The Workplace Transformed: 7 Crucial Lessons from the Global Pandemic – here – https://angelareddock-wright.com/book/.
For media inquiries, please reach out to josh@kwsmdigital.com.
For more information regarding mediation and dispute resolution resources for both employees and employers, let’s connect on LinkedIn for new updates or contact me here. You may also follow me on Instagram.
This communication is not legal advice. It is educational only. For legal advice, consult with an experienced employment law attorney in your state or city.