MEDIATION SERVICES

Resolving business disputes through courtroom litigation can be expensive and time consuming. Although litigation may be the best choice under certain circumstances, many businesses choose a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) called mediation.

Neutral mediation services help you and your company resolve a wide range of business conflicts.   Our Rule 114 qualified mediators bring an in-depth, yet practical perspective to bear in helping parties resolve disputes without litigation – especially those involving:

Why Mediation?

Mediation has several practical advantages when compared to litigation. Though mediation is not right for every situation, consider that mediation:

  • Is often cheaper and faster than litigation
  • Can often be handled confidentially
  • Can help business partners come to a win-win agreement Often results in longer-lasting resolutions

What is a Rule 114 Qualified Neutral?

Under Minnesota law, the State Court Administrator maintains a roster of mediators who have fulfilled a strict set of requirements. These mediators are known as “qualified neutrals.”   To be eligible for qualified neutral status, a mediator must receive extensive training on a variety of key topics, including:

  • Laws and statutes governing the mediation process
  • Ethics of mediation, such as neutrality, confidentiality, and conflicts of interest
  • Techniques for effective mediation, such as problem solving, negotiation, and communications

Our Mediators

Paul G. Christensen
Qualified Neutral Paul G. Christensen leads the Skjold ▪ Barthel Mediation Services Group.   Mr. Christensen’s professional experience as an attorney, CPA and former business owner brings an in-depth yet practical perspective to bear in helping parties resolve disputes – especially those involving complex financial matters.

Benjamin R. Skjold
Benjamin Skjold comes to the mediation table with a strong background in law, business and the securities industry.  Adept at developing settlement options with a sound business solution, Skjold focuses on mediations involving complex financial matters, contract disputes, non-competes, trade secrets and shareholder disputes.