Individuals who mediate cases have the opportunity to complete a voluntary, confi dential survey. In 2006, data show that 86 percent of respondents in Idaho’s 4th District Court program agreed or strongly agreed that they would use mediation again. Seventy-nine percent agreed or strongly agreed that they thought the mediated agreement would work. Seventy-four percent were satisfied with the mediated agreement. Citizen satisfaction with the program’s services is high. The court also can hear more cases more quickly than before the university-court partnership program was established.
Those who study mediation-but never become professional mediators-also accrue benefits. The skills useful to mediators are transferable to everyday life. Listening, refram ing issues, and problem solving are trademarks of a good mediator and are characteristic ~f effective leaders. Mediator skills enhance individual competence and can be applied informally at home, work, or in social situations.