Whether it’s neighbors in Napa arguing over a fence or a family in Fresno clashing over an inheritance, legal conflicts can quickly become expensive and emotionally draining. That’s why more people are turning to mediation, a faster, more cost-effective alternative to traditional litigation.

In a recent interview on ABC30 Action News Live at 3, anchor Vanessa Vasconcelos spoke with Kimberly Taylor, CEO and president of JAMS, the largest private provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services in the world. Kimberly shared key insights into how mediation works, why it's trending and the types of disputes it can resolve.

Mediation: A Long-Standing Solution Gaining New Popularity

While mediation isn't new, it's rapidly gaining traction as people look for efficient ways to resolve legal conflicts.

“Mediation has been around actually for quite a long time,” said Taylor. “But you're right—it is increasingly being used for just about every type of dispute that might end up in a courthouse.”

The appeal? Mediation offers efficiency, flexibility and confidentiality, often resolving disputes in a single day compared to the months or years court cases can take.

How Does Mediation Work?

Mediation involves a neutral third party, often a retired judge or experienced attorney, who facilitates a resolution between conflicting parties. This neutral—commonly referred to as a mediator—is chosen by both sides.

“They act as a go-between to bring the parties together, understand each side’s perspective and work toward a resolution,” Taylor explained. “Sometimes everyone meets in the same room, and other times they’re in separate rooms, with the mediator moving back and forth.”

The goal is to reach a settlement agreement that satisfies all parties, helping them move forward with their lives or businesses without the burden of ongoing litigation.

Types of Disputes Resolved Through Mediation

Mediation is incredibly versatile and used across industries and legal scenarios, including:

• Personal injury (e.g., auto accidents)
• Workplace disputes and employment claims
• Insurance conflicts
• Business contract disagreements
• Family and inheritance disputes

“Just about every type of case you hear about in the news can be settled through mediation,” said Taylor.

Why Mediation Is More Cost-Effective Than Litigation

The cost savings from mediation stem from its streamlined process.

A traditional court case involves discovery, depositions, motion filings and long waiting periods before a judge or jury ever hears the case. Each step adds to attorneys’ fees and court costs.

“Litigation can be very protracted,” said Taylor. “Mediation ideally resolves a case in a single day, avoiding many of those steps.”

By resolving conflicts early, parties not only save on legal fees, but also eliminate the emotional toll and unpredictability of a courtroom trial.

Mediation in California: A Growing Trend

From Fallbrook to Fresno, Sacramento to San Diego, mediation is becoming the go-to method for resolving disputes in California. It's not just for corporations—individuals, families and small businesses are increasingly embracing mediation as a faster, more affordable path to justice.

“It’s a more efficient, cost-effective and often faster way for parties to resolve their legal disputes, get out of conflict and move on,” Taylor emphasized.

Watch the full ABC30 Action News interview with Kimberly Taylor below: