Dispute Resolution
Many legal professionals and commentators encourage settling disputes outside of court through mediation or negotiation. They note how much time, expense, and relational harm can be avoided by not engaging in traditional litigation. We agree with this advice and these reasons, but feel that such discussions often leave out the most important reason for resolving disputes without adverse litigation: the Bible commands it!
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Commands to seek peace are found all throughout the Bible (all quoted from the ESV): James 3:17-18 states, "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace." Hebrews 12:14 instructs, "Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord." Matthew 5:9 says, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God." Romans 12:18 commands, "If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all."
Clearly, God wants his followers to live in peace and seek peace with others. Unfortunately, we still experience conflict, sometimes even with family members and brothers and sister in Christ. Rather than seeking a legal solution through the courts, Beiler Legal Services offers mediation services that enable people to seek a peaceful resolution of difficult legal issues, while at the same time seeking a restoration of the underlying relationships.
Mediation
Mediation is a process in which parties discuss their disputes with the help of a trained, impartial third person (the mediator). The process is structured in a way that allows all parties to the dispute a chance to be fully heard, and allows the parties to seek to find common ground. If necessary, the mediator may offer suggestions for resolution, and may meet with the parties one-on-one. The ultimate goal is to resolve the dispute by reaching an agreement that is fair and acceptable to all parties, without requiring the involvement of a court of law. In mediation, the mediator does not legally represent either party. Rather, the mediator seeks to help the parties voluntarily reach an agreement with each other. Mediation is especially well-suited for situations involving parties that are related to each other, or otherwise have a close and ongoing relationship.