Features of mediation:

• Informal Process
• Participants can make opening statements
• Participants can set ground rules if they wish
• Not limited by rules of evidence or objections as in court
• Participants make all decisions

I use a facilitative process in mediation, which means that I strive to increase clarity, communication, analysis and creativity while working to remove barriers to resolution.  Please read my article on the benefits of facilitative mediation:

What Facilitative Mediation Has to Offer