Wednesday, June 3, 2009

What traits should you look for in a mediator?

There is no simple answer to this question. There is no one predictor of success as a mediator. Successful mediators come from many different backgrounds and have varied life experiences. A competent mediator is an effective conflict manager. Competence depends partly on the type of the dispute and the parties' expectations. It also depends on whether the mediator has the right mix of acquired skills, training, education, experience and natural abilities to help resolve the specific dispute.

A good mediator will probably have many of the following qualities:

• Overall "people" skills.
• Good verbal and listening skills.
• Thinks "outside the box."
• Helps people work together as a team.
• Impartial.
• Respect for the parties.
• The ability to gain the parties' confidence.
• Knowledge of the mediation process.
• Brings a balanced approach to control of the process.
• Initiative and the confidence to use it.
• Reflective.
• Trustworthy.
• Dependable.
• Keeps information confidential.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure.

The most important skills and abilities include impartiality, the abilities to communicate, and the ability to define and clarify issues.

Welcome to Trinity Mediation


My name is Katie O'Keefe-Hale, J.D., and I am a Qualified Mediator in Minnesota and North Dakota. A 2003 University of North Dakota Law School graduate, I became passionate about resolving disputes for my clients through mediation after taking my first ADR class while in school. I became licensed and legally qualified as a mediator before I became an attorney and have continued my growth, eduation, and training since 2002.

Trinity Mediation can resolve YOUR dispute at a fraction of the price it would cost to fight it out in court. Significantly cut down on court costs by taking control of your dispute through mediation! I specialize in divorce mediation, employment mediation and all types of civil mediation.

A mediator helps parties evaluate, assess, and decide for themselves. Whereas some lawyers would rather take a case to court, mediators work to find a solution both parties are happy with before the battle. The mediator’s job is to listen, sort through the differences, and find the common ground.
  • Self determination is a fundamental principle of mediation. Participants have the capacity and freedom to reach a voluntary agreement through the mediation process. YOU HAVE THE CONTROL, whereas in a court of law, others will decide your fate!
  • Cut down on costly litigation expenses by mediating your conflict.
  • I specialize in mediating all sorts of legal disputes including: Family disputes, divorce settlements, commercial mediation, workplace disputes, & civil disputes of any kind. ANY LEGAL ISSUE CAN BE MEDIATED! CALL TODAY, 701-610-5292.