Mediation is a process in which a neutral third party, known as a mediator, helps two or more parties resolve conflicts or disputes through facilitated communication and negotiation. The mediator facilitates a structured discussion between the parties, helping them to identify their interests, communicate effectively, and reach a mutually agreeable solution. Mediation is often used in legal, workplace, family, and community settings to avoid the time and expense of going to court and to promote collaborative problem-solving. The ultimate goal of mediation is to help parties find a resolution that satisfies everyone involved.