[1] Mediation is used to resolve a broad range of conflicts within a variety ofsettings. These standards are designed to serve as fundamental ethical guidelines for persons mediating in all practice contexts. The standards serve three primary goals: to guide the conduct of mediators; to inform the mediating parties; and to promote public confidence in mediation as a process for resolving disputes. [2] Mediation is a process in which an impartial third party facilitates communication and negotiation and promotes voluntary decision making by the parties to the dispute. [3] Mediation serves various purposes, including providing the opportunity for parties to define and clarify issues, understand different perspectives, identify interests, explore and assess possible solutions, and reach mutually satisfactory agreements, when desired.Stand. Cond. Med. PREAMBLE