Resolve Neighbor Conflict through Mediation Services

No matter how hard we try to get along with our neighbors, we may at some point find ourselves in disagreement with them. Quite often, such disagreements are due to a lack of understanding or them not realizing that they are doing something that is upsetting us. The most common causes of neighbor dispute are noise nuisance, pet issues, parking, boundary disputes or anti social behavior from children, other household members or visitors.

On approach, it is hopeful that such differences can be resolved quickly and amicably: your neighbor may be horrified to realize that they have been causing you some discontent. On the other hand, however, your neighbors may not wish to compromise on their behavior and remain adamant in their belief that they are not causing any problem.

If resolution cannot be agreed by both parties, there is a danger that what was once a minor disagreement can escalate into a long and expensive legal battle, and neither party being able to communicate with each other in the future. In extreme cases, one party may even have to give up their home and move away because they are no longer able to live alongside their neighbor.

Mediation, is in comparison, a very cost effective way towards reaching an amicable solution. Mediators are not there to judge, express any opinion or advice, but to listen to the views of both parties, and work with them to accept and agree on solutions to their issues. Mediation works well because the mediator will work with both parties, either separately or both together, to agree on certain steps and actions, which means that if adhered to, further legal action can be prevented. Mediation may also help to restore good neighbor communication and relations and slowly help build up the friendship that existed before the conflict.

Why Mediation is better than court proceedings:

Mediation is better than court proceedings, particularly when divorce/separation, custodial rights, child support, neighbor property disputes are concerned.

In the court proceedings, the parties can present their reasons but have no final hand in the agreement. The court decides and its decision becomes lawfully binding.

In meditation, a third party who is neutral to both parties negotiates an agreement. The mediator listens patiently to both sides of the argument and then reaches a decision which is mutually acceptable.

The mediator has no authority to make a judgment and impose it.

It is an established fact that mediation as a part of conflict resolution is a powerful tool to settle all disputes. A careful internet search will give you the names of many good mediation services.