Arbitration and mediation

Arbitration or Mediation: What Is the Difference?

A general comparison to help parties understand the two paths before choosing how to manage a dispute.

Updated: 10 September 2026

General editorial legal material published on the firm’s website.

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A general comparison to help parties understand the two paths before choosing how to manage a dispute.

Key points

  • Mediation is a negotiated path
  • Arbitration is a private adjudicative path
  • The choice depends on the matter

Useful for: Useful for initial reading and identifying questions that may need legal review.

This automatic summary is based on the published text. It is not legal advice and does not replace checking official sources and reviewing the facts with a qualified lawyer.

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01

Mediation is a negotiated path

Mediation helps parties explore a solution with a neutral mediator. It generally depends on the parties accepting the proposed resolution or final agreement.

02

Arbitration is a private adjudicative path

In arbitration, an arbitrator or tribunal considers the dispute under the agreement and applicable rules, potentially resulting in an arbitral award.

03

The choice depends on the matter

No single path fits every dispute. Review the contract, facts, timing, cost, confidentiality, and enforceability before choosing.

Frequently asked questions

Mediation is a negotiated path?

Mediation helps parties explore a solution with a neutral mediator. It generally depends on the parties accepting the proposed resolution or final agreement.

Arbitration is a private adjudicative path?

In arbitration, an arbitrator or tribunal considers the dispute under the agreement and applicable rules, potentially resulting in an arbitral award.

The choice depends on the matter?

No single path fits every dispute. Review the contract, facts, timing, cost, confidentiality, and enforceability before choosing.

Notice: this article is general educational information and does not constitute legal advice or a final assessment of any matter.

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