Mediation News

EEOC Mediation

Introduction
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is firmly committed to using alternative methods for resolving disputes in all of its activities, where appropriate and feasible. Used properly in appropriate circumstances, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) can provide faster, less expensive and contentious, and more productive results in eliminating workplace discrimination, as well as in Commission operations.

The use of ADR is fully consistent with EEOC's mission as a law enforcement agency. It is squarely based in the statutes creating and enforced by the Commission Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Equal Pay Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The use of ADR is also predicated on the Administrative Dispute Resolution Act (ADRA), pursuant to which this policy is being adopted, Executive Orders 12778 and 12871, and the National Performance Review. Finally, the Commission's 1995 ADR Task Force Report made a strong and persuasive case for the use of ADR programs.

Neutrality
Commission ADR proceedings will rely on a neutral third party to facilitate resolution of the dispute. ADR proceedings are most successful where a neutral or impartial third party, with no vested interest in the outcome of a dispute, allows the parties themselves to attempt to resolve their dispute. Neutrality will help maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the ADR program.

The facilitator's duty to the parties is to be neutral, honest, and to act in good faith. Those who act as neutrals under EEOC auspices should possess a thorough knowledge of EEO law, and must be trained in mediation theory and techniques.

If you decide to retain a mediator in Tennessee and begin the mediation process, Contact our Tennessee Mediaton Lawyer now!

	Did You Know?
	The mediation process may vary depending on the mediator. Generally, mediations commence with a general session with all parties, counsel and the mediator. At the general session, there will be a discussion of the case, the issues on appeal and other matters important to settlement. Then the mediator will meet separately with each party and their counsel in separate "caucuses." In these separate sessions, the mediator will seek to foster negotiations between the parties and develop agreement.