Among neutrals in the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) arena, there is often a conversation (or dilemma) about whether to work as an arbitrator, a mediator or both. Many neutrals prefer to choose one or the other for a multitude of reasons.

Some prefer the lack of deadlines and stress found in the mediation setting. Others are concerned that their rulings in an arbitration may alienate their client base – the attorneys. Some simply have a natural preference for one form of dispute resolution versus another. After wrangling with this issue for years, I ultimately made a conscious decision several years ago: to do both.

Arbitration and Mediation: a Natural Symbiosis