Minnesota Mediation and Arbitration Services

Not every legal dispute needs to be decided by a judge.

Mediation and arbitration provide alternatives to traditional litigation that often save time, reduce costs, and give the parties greater control over the outcome. While both processes are forms of alternative dispute resolution, they serve different purposes and offer different levels of finality.

At Robinson | Duffy we provide neutral mediation and arbitration services as well as representation for clients participating in these proceedings.

Many of our attorneys are Rule 114 qualified neutrals, included on the Minnesota Supreme Court's statewide roster maintained under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. This qualification reflects the training and experience required to serve as a neutral mediator or arbitrator, giving our clients confidence that their dispute is being guided by a qualified and impartial professional.

Mediation

Mediation is a confidential process in which a neutral third party helps the parties negotiate a mutually acceptable resolution. Unlike a judge, the mediator does not make decisions or impose a result. Instead, the mediator facilitates productive discussions, identifies areas of agreement, and helps the parties explore creative solutions that may not be available through litigation.

Mediation can be an effective option for:

  • Divorce.
  • Child custody and parenting time.
  • Child support.
  • Property division.
  • Post-decree disagreements.

Many disputes resolve through mediation, allowing the parties to avoid the expense and uncertainty of trial while preserving important relationships.

Arbitration

Arbitration is more formal than mediation. The parties present evidence and arguments to a neutral arbitrator, who then issues a decision. Depending on the parties' agreement, that decision may be binding and enforceable in court.

Arbitration often provides a faster and more private alternative to traditional litigation while still offering a structured process for resolving disputes.

A Practical Approach to Dispute Resolution

Every dispute is different. Some cases are well suited for settlement, while others require a final decision from a neutral decision-maker. At Robinson | Duffy we help clients understand the advantages and limitations of each process so they can make informed decisions about how to move their case forward.

Whether serving as a neutral or representing a client in mediation or arbitration, our goal is the same: helping people resolve disputes efficiently, thoughtfully, and with confidence.

Contact Robinson | Duffy today to learn whether mediation or arbitration is right for your situation.

Thoughts from a Client ...

When a friend referred me to Jill, looking back it was the best gift I could've been given. She was always attentive to my situation and there to guide me with things related to the divorce, and ongoing custody disputes over my 3 children.
– SA, Mother in divorce and post-decree proceedings