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| A RETURN TO OUR ROOTS Historians tell us that throughout early American history, lawyers took an active role in promoting peace within their local communities, through constructive influence and leadership. While the stories which support this description of events may contain some element of legend, one cannot deny that the public image of the contemporary lawyer is quite different from that described in the history books. Times have changed, and so has the profession. In an age when burn and destroy litigation tactics are employed as a matter of routine, the traditional notion that a lawyer should strive for peaceful resolution of clients' disputes can sometimes seem quaint, if not anachronistic. After all, haven't we all heard that justice is best attained through the adversarial system in which we operate? Why not project the strength of a client's position through battle, in which prisoners are never taken? Ultimately, lawyers are charged with the protection and promotion of their clients' interests. In recent years, it has become painfully clear that the delay, expense and risk associated with modern day litigation pose excessive burdens to all constituents involved in the process, proving unacceptable to most clients. Perhaps clients' interests are best served when litigation is viewed not as the first option, but the last. In response to this growing awareness, a reshaping of the landscape has begun, to include alternative approaches to the resolution of disputes. Central to this transformation in thought is the widespread use of mediation, a powerful tool embraced by those who seek early and efficient solutions to conflict. As a certified civil mediator, Mike Harmeyer is an enthusiastic proponent of the mediation process. Mike values the benefits associated with the successful use of mediation as a technique promoting the settlement of disputes. He offers his services as a neutral to parties who possess a genuine desire to avoid, or escape, the litigation trap. Mediation services include pre-suit mediation, in addition to assignments ordered by the Court or otherwise agreed to by the parties during the course of litigation. Scheduling of your mediation conference can be arranged by contacting Mike at: (260) 423-4565 (telephone) or (260) 423-6331 (facsimile). |
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