Mediation is the second type of alternative dispute resolution. Alternative Dispute Resolution or A.D.R. (ADR) is a term used to refer to alternative ways to resolve conflict outside of court.
The first type of ADR is Negotiation. Negotiation is the term used for two people who sit down and discuss an issue and try to resolve it between them.
Mediation is the term used for two people who sit down with a mutual third party to try and resolve a conflict. The mediators goal is to help the parties come to an amicable solution calmly. Often this is ordered by the courts.
Arbitration is the term used for two people who sit down with amutual third party whose goal is to order a resolution, it is usual ordered by tribunals when they don’t have other means to help you resolve conflict. Unlike mediation the arbitrater has the authority to make an order even if the parties do not agree if they feel it is in the best interest.