Is mediation binding on the parties involved?

Mediation is a form of dispute resolution in which a neutral third party, the mediator, helps parties negotiate an agreement that resolves their dispute. In Washington, the parties involved in mediation may be legally bound by any agreements they make in the mediation process. When a dispute is settled through mediation in Washington, a written agreement is signed that is legally enforceable. This means that should the parties involved fail to hold up their end of the agreement, they could face legal consequences. Any agreements made in mediation are binding on the parties involved in Washington except for those regarding issues over which the family court has jurisdiction. For example, if the parties make an agreement regarding the custody or support of a child, then this agreement may not be binding and may still need to be court-ordered. Therefore, Washington law states that agreements that come out of a mediation process are normally binding on the parties involved. It is important to note, however, that the legal enforceability of these agreements can vary depending on the specific issues being negotiated. It is always important to have an attorney review the agreement before signing it.

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Is mediation binding on the parties involved?

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