What is the purpose of court mediation prior to trial?

The purpose of court mediation prior to trial is primarily to encourage the parties to settle their disputes amicably. Mediation serves as a platform for the disputing parties to communicate and negotiate in a structured environment, with the help of a neutral mediator. This process aims to facilitate mutually agreeable solutions and reduce the need for a trial, which can be time-consuming and costly.

Amicable settlements reached during mediation not only alleviate the burden on the court system by decreasing the number of cases that proceed to trial but also allow the parties to have more control over the outcome. Unlike a court ruling, where the decision is imposed by a judge, mediation empowers the parties to collaboratively develop their own solutions, which is often more satisfactory and tailored to their specific needs.

In contrast, while expediting the trial process is a potential benefit of settling through mediation, the primary aim remains to foster a cooperative resolution. Determining the merits of each case is typically a function of the trial process itself, where evidence is presented and assessed. Lastly, establishing the court's jurisdiction pertains to the scope and authority of the court to hear a case, which is separate from mediation objectives.