FAQs

  • Mediation is a collaborative process where a neutral third party helps disputing individuals or groups have a productive conversation and resolve their concerns. It’s a voluntary and confidential alternative to more adversarial approaches like litigation.

  • Not at all. While mediation is commonly used in legal context, its applications are endless: team dynamics, family business disagreements, contract renegotiations, and more.

    In fact, mediation can be helpful even before any tensions arise (e.g., facilitate a negotiation process of a co-founder agreement to introduce some clarity into the world of uncertainty).

  • No, the mediation process itself isn’t legally binding.

    However, if the parties reach an agreement, they can formalize it into a legally binding contract, making the terms enforceable.

  • Yes, confidentiality is one of the most important components that make mediation so effective. General rule - everything that happens in mediation stays in mediation, including prep work.

    There are some exceptions to confidentiality related to threats of physical harm, criminal conduct, violence, abuse, and some others. Although Conflict Mentor can’t guarantee confidentiality (we can’t control what other parties say or do), we will put it in writing and discuss any concerns you may have.

  • No—while some mediators are attorneys, mediation itself does not require an attorney license.

    Mediators come from diverse professional backgrounds, including business, psychology, and conflict resolution. The key qualification of a mediator is their ability to help parties get through the process of talking it out and reach a wise solution without giving up.

  • Some disputes are resolved in a single session, and others need multiple meetings over weeks or months.

    We make speed a priority and give you full control of your schedule, which is a benefit you won’t get in court.

  • We specialize in disputes in professional and business setting, for example:

    All Businesses:

    • Business partnership disputes

    • Vendor and supplier conflicts

    • Employee disputes

    • Leadership and management conflicts

    • Client and customer complaints

    Construction-Specific:

    • Disputes between contractors, subcontractors, and clients

    • Payment disagreements and contract issues

    • Project delays and scope changes

    • Conflict over quality expectations

    Startup-Specific:

    • Co-founder disputes (vision, equity, roles, level of commitment)

    • Investor-founder disputes

    • Exit strategies and buyouts

    • Team dynamics and leadership in startups

    • Conflict over intellectual property

    Family Business-Specific:

    • Succession planning and leadership transitions

    • Disagreements between family and non-family members and employees

    • Family vs. business communication breakdowns

  • Yes, we provide personalized conflict coaching, aimed to equip you with the right tools to handle conflict like a pro.

  • Yes. We accommodate clients regardless of their location.

  • Absolutely. Many conflicts start small but escalate over time, doing more damage than they should’ve. Mediation isn’t just for resolving disputes—it’s a proactive tool to prevent them.

    Engage a mediator early to:

    • improve communication and decison-making

    • clarify roles, expectations, and contractual rights and obligations before committing

    • create long-term conflict resolution strategies