Choosing the Right Mediation Style for You

Steven Stieglitz | Dec 04 2025 16:00

Resolving conflicts can often feel daunting and overwhelming. Many people may feel unsure about which method of dispute resolution suits their needs. Mediation presents a valuable alternative to traditional court battles, offering various styles to cater to different needs. Let's explore each style to help you discern which might be right for you, with the guidance of our experienced mediators at Stieglitz & Welch.

Transformative Mediation

Transformative mediation creates a supportive environment where parties can truly hear and understand one another. This style places a high value on emotional healing and the personal aspects of the conflict, making it best suited for deeply personal disputes or situations where relationships need repairing. For cases involving family law, such as disputes over a will, this approach can facilitate deeper understanding and emotional resolution.

Evaluative Mediation

Evaluative mediation adopts a no-nonsense, direct approach that's highly efficient. It's suitable when time is of the essence and quick solutions are needed. The mediator provides solutions focused on resolving concrete problems, making it ideal for business conflicts or when a quick settlement is needed to avoid operational disruption.

Facilitative Mediation

Often recognized as the most familiar mediation style, facilitative mediation blends both evaluative and transformative techniques. This adaptable style focuses on asking insightful questions, validating each party, and maintaining professional relationships. It's an ideal choice for workplace conflicts, where finding mutually agreeable solutions is essential.

Discovering the right mediation style depends on the nature of the conflict. At Stieglitz & Welch, our legal guidance can help you choose the approach that aligns best with your specific needs, offering a calmer and flexible alternative to courtroom litigation.

If you’re ready to explore the best mediation option for you, contact us today for personalized guidance and ensure a smoother conflict resolution process.