Med-Arb

Definition:

Med-Arb. As the name implies, this is a dispute resolution process that combines mediation and arbitration. Initially, the parties try to reach a settlement through mediation. If there are issues that are not resolved through mediation, an arbitrator (the same person who acted as mediator) makes a decision for the parties, since the mediator – now an arbitrator – is already familiar with the parties and their positions.  Having presented their “cases” to the mediator, parties are often comfortable with the mediator then making a binding decision in the second phase.