Question

I am a trained mediator and an faced with this question all of the time-does the neutral party benefit?

It is raised because in mediation, the neutral party is paid hourly and mediation is a dispute resolution "process" and not a finding based on evidence. As such, the allegation is to the neutral, why dont you resolve this issue fast so we can not spend much on mediation. The fact is, no mediation can be resolved by the mediatior but relies on the parties.

Answer 1

In my opinion, neutral party does benefit because mediation process can never be completed quickly and it takes time for the parties to come into agreement with the help of a mediator. Hence a mediator earns enough through resolution of issue between both the parties since he/she is paid hourly for the services offered. Moreover a mediator creates a goodwill among his/her clients if they offer good services and resolve issues between them. This helps the mediator in getting further recommendations and more business as well.