Mediation + Alternative Dispute Resolution
At Stevens Law Office, we believe that not every legal dispute needs to be resolved in the courtroom.
With more than 40 years of experience, our firm helps individuals, families, and businesses throughout Vermont resolve disputes through mediation and other forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR). These methods allow parties to maintain control of the process, achieve faster and more predictable results, and often preserve valuable personal and professional relationships.
Mediation Services
Mediation provides a structured but flexible environment where parties can work together to reach mutually acceptable solutions. Unlike litigation, which leaves decisions in the hands of a judge, mediation empowers you to shape the outcome in a way that reflects your goals and interests. Our firm serves as skilled representatives during mediation in cases involving:
- Contract disputes
- Real estate and property matters
- Agricultural and farming issues
- Business and commercial disagreements
- Neighbor disputes
Strategic Approach to Resolution
We take a deliberate, strategic approach to mediation and ADR. Our firm analyzes each case thoroughly, anticipates potential obstacles, and develops a plan designed to achieve the best possible results. Whether through careful negotiation or structured mediation sessions, we pursue outcomes that protect your rights, align with your objectives, and avoid the uncertainty and expense of trial.
Preserving Relationships
One of the greatest benefits of mediation is the ability to resolve disputes while maintaining important personal, business, or community relationships. By setting aside hostility and focusing on solutions, mediation helps preserve stability during times of conflict. For employers, business partners, farmers, neighbors, property owners, and families, this process can reduce stress, maintain goodwill, and create an alternate path forward.
Contract Negotiation + Dispute Resolution
Contracts are at the heart of many legal disputes. Our firm provides skilled assistance at both the negotiation and enforcement stages:
Negotiating Contracts
We carefully draft and review agreements to ensure clarity, compliance with Vermont law, and protection of your interests. A well-prepared contract can prevent disputes before they arise.
Resolving Contract Disputes
When a contract is breached, the consequences can be disruptive and costly. In many cases, mediation offers a practical alternative to litigation, allowing the parties to reach win-win solutions that protect business relationships while avoiding the delays and expenses of trial.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) encompasses mediation, nonbinding arbitration, and binding arbitration. These processes can often save significant time, money, and stress compared to litigation, while still offering opportunities for fair and just outcomes.
What Is the Difference Between Arbitration and Mediation?
Mediation and arbitration are distinct but complementary ADR processes:
Mediation
A collaborative and voluntary process where a neutral mediator helps parties reach agreement but does not impose a decision. Mediation gives the parties control and often helps preserve important relationships.
Arbitration
A more formal process where a neutral arbitrator hears both sides and issues a decision.
Nonbinding Arbitration
The arbitrator issues a decision, but the parties may reject it and proceed to binding arbitration or trial.
Binding Arbitration
The parties agree in advance to accept the arbitrator’s decision as final, with no right to appeal.
Testimonials
What our clients are saying.
"I had an excellent experience at this office. From the initial consultation to the resolution of my case, the staff listened to all of my concerns and showed true professionalism. Lynne, in particular, was always responsive -answering phone calls and emails at practically any hour- and was very dedicated to making sure this entire process understandable to me, and that I knew what to expect at every step. Lynne's commitment to my case is what made me trust this firm."
"I cannot say enough about the attentiveness of Mr. Hal Stevens to my contractual problem. I felt he actually listened and then took time to walk me through the options which happily were resolved to my satisfaction. His clerk was likewise responsive and very quick to reply to my queries. Thank you!"
"I had a great experience with Harold Stevens and his team. Harold was professional, efficient, and made the whole process easy. Lynne Cullen, the law clerk, was also excellent. She kept everything organized, reminded me about my hearing, and made sure I was prepared. Everyone I dealt with was kind, helpful, and on top of things. They were exactly what I needed. Highly recommend."
"Lynne was fantastic to work with on my estate planning needs. She was knowledgeable, professional, and made the entire process smooth and stress-free. I don’t know what I would have done without her expertise. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for expert guidance - 5 stars."
"Lived in Stowe many years now in Colorado. Still owned property in Stowe. Stevens Law firm handled required legal documents and represented me at Closing. All while I was in Colorado. They were concise, helpful and at time patient! Would use them again in a minute!"
Contact us to get the best legal help.
This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship.