Negotiation and Mediation

Legal disputes often result from a breakdown in communication, where the parties see no other avenue but the courtroom for resolving their differences. But there is another way to handle such disputes: negotiation and mediation. I can help you come to a settlement with the opposing party without the expense and time of going to court, and the mental energy spent on protracted litigation.


Please note: This firm does not handle litigation.


I can help in several ways:


  • As your advocate in the negotiation, I facilitate communication so that everyone is heard and the parties come to a voluntary, cooperative agreement that is likely more creative and mutually beneficial than an adversarial court finding. Following a successful negotiation, I draft a legally binding settlement agreement that satisfies all parties. 
  • As your advocate in a mediation, I represent your interests to the neutral third-party mediator and ensure that the ultimate settlement agreement protects you now and in the future.
  • As the neutral third-party mediator, I work on behalf of all parties in an informal and confidential process to facilitate a fair and mutually beneficial agreement for people who otherwise have difficulty communicating effectively. 


If you have a business or personal dispute you want to settle out of court,  call the Law Office of Wendy Anderson today.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is mediation mandatory in Arizona?

    Mediation for business disputes is not mandatory in Arizona. Mediation is generally agreed upon in a contract between two parties, before any dispute arises.  If the contract requires mediation, then the parties must follow the contracted terms.  If there is no contract between the parties, or if the contract does not address dispute resolution, then the parties may agree to mediation if they want, or one party can file a lawsuit.

  • How does mediation work in Arizona?

    Mediation is a form of dispute resolution whereby the disputing parties agree to talk with a neutral third-party who will help them come to a solution.  Generally, both parties will have to compromise, rather than having a winner and a loser declared.  Mediation is a private process that can often result in a resolution more quickly than either arbitration or litigation

  • How does arbitration work in Arizona?

    Arbitration is a private form of dispute resolution where the parties agree to let a neutral third-party decide who is liable to the other.  Generally, the parties will present their evidence to the arbitrator, who will then decide which party prevails.  Either party may have an attorney represent them, if desired.

  • What options do businesses have for resolving disputes?

    Businesses have several options for resolving disputes in Arizona. Business disputes can be resolved through negotiation between the parties.  If no resolution is found, the parties can agree to go to mediation or arbitration, which are both private proceedings, or one party can file a lawsuit against the other in state or federal court.


  • What is litigation vs arbitration?

    Litigation is the process of arguing a dispute in court.  One party will file the lawsuit as the plaintiff and the other party will be the respondent.  If the dispute is not settled, then a judge or a jury will decide who prevails and what money damages they receive.  With Arbitration, a neutral third-party arbitrator decides the matter after reviewing and listening to evidence.  Arbitration is a private process, whereas litigation cases are public record, and generally arbitration takes less time than litigation.