Advocacy In Mediation Essay

Advocacy in Mediation
Mediation can be defined as the act of intervening for the purpose of bringing about resolution to a conflict (Barsky, 2007). In the mediation process mediators are considered to be a non-bias, neutral third party who directs the mediation process in effort to guide the conflicting party’s to a viable conflict resolution. Having no displayed or exhibited pre-judgment of either conflicting parties, the mediator gives fair consideration to the arguments of both parties, however, making no judgments or determinations neither of whom is right or wrong nor concerning the parties decided resolution of the conflict. An advocate, conversely, can be defined as one who speaks, plead, or argues in favor of propounding a client’s interest as it relates to the resolution of
Having an advocate present in mediation gives the client a sense of having an ally on their side in the mediation process. However, the advocate in the mediation process must be careful to not overstep his or her boundaries in the mediation process as to do so can result in damages to the client, the agency and the advocate. Reference:
Barsky, A.E (2007). Conflict resolution for the helping professional (2nd ed.). Belmont, CA: Thomson Learning
Holbrook, J. R. (2001). Mediator focus: mediation advocacy in a nutshell. Utah State Bar. Retrieved August 28, 2009, from http://www.utahbar.org/barjournal2000/html/june-july_2001_3.html
Hoover, Jr., L. H. (1996). Advocacy in mediation means rethinking legal skills. The McCammon Group. Retrieved August 28, 2009, from http://www.mccammongroup.com/articles/advocacy-in-mediation.asp
Matthews, J. (2009). How your lawyer can help with mediation. Nolo. Retrieved August 28, 2009, from