A retired judge should know the benefit of mediation more than anyone else; they will have been able to witness, first hand, how many cases did not need to end up in the courtroom; cases which could have been resolved far more amicably. Dennis Powers, a retired judge now runs a Detroit mediation business and draws on his first-hand knowledge of the law; as both an attorney and a judge to help resolve disputes. His experiences in the court room also allow him to see both sides of any picture, having witnessed it countless times before.

His website - http://www.powersdmediation.com/ lists the many areas of mediation he is prepared to assist in:

• Aviation mediation – The aviation industry is incredibly complex, many business relationships are founded on third parties and this can often ride to disputes between two, or three of the parties. They are also constricted by strict governmental guidelines and an incredibly competitive marketplace. Disputes can quickly escalate and an experienced mediator is essential for the survival of the businesses involved.

• Contract mediation – No matter how well drawn up a business or even personal contract is drawn up; it is simply not possible to cover every possible option. The changing economy, business needs and even personal needs will often cause issues with the wording of a contract. The simplest way to settle this is to undertake mediation and find some common, mutually acceptable ground.

• Personal Injury – There is a huge amount covered by this heading, it can involve an accident involving a vehicle, or an incident at work. In fact anything which causes you an injury which is the result of a third party; whether negligent or not. Unfortunately, many people take this personally and communication can quickly breakdown; necessitating the need for a mediator.

• Real estate – Mediation can cover simple real estate contracts where the two sides simply fail to agree on one point, or it can cover tenant / landlord disputes. It can also cover foreclosures and liens. All of these issues can be resolved with the services of a professional mediator.

• Domestic relations – the most common family issue is divorce, but there are other matters in the home which can benefit from the services of a mediator. Often it is simply an opportunity for a couple to voice their opinion without fear of reprisal. A mediator can offer this safe haven and move the relationship forward.