What legal process resolves disputes through the use of a third-party facilitator?

In the context of resolving disputes, mediation involves a third-party facilitator who assists the disputing parties in reaching a mutually agreeable solution. The mediator does not make binding decisions or impose solutions; instead, they guide the parties through discussion and negotiation to help them communicate effectively and explore potential resolutions. This process emphasizes collaboration and allows the parties to maintain control over the outcome, promoting a more amicable resolution compared to adversarial processes.

Arbitration, in contrast, involves a third-party arbitrator who has the authority to make binding decisions based on the evidence and arguments presented by both sides. This option is more formal than mediation and often resembles a judicial process.

Litigation refers to the process of resolving disputes through the court system, where a judge or jury makes a final decision based on legal arguments and evidence presented during a trial.

Conciliation also involves a third-party facilitator, but it typically focuses more on the relationship between the parties and may include recommending solutions rather than just facilitating discussion. While both conciliation and mediation share similarities, mediation specifically emphasizes collaborative negotiation rather than advisory roles.

Therefore, mediation is the process where a third-party facilitator assists the parties in dispute in finding a resolution, making it the correct answer.