Mediation is a process in which the parties to a dispute (and their attorneys) meet with a neutral, third-party mediator who works with the parties to resolve their differences and settle the dispute (often a lawsuit). In many civil lawsuits the court will order the parties to engage in mediation.

The parties are not required to settle or resolve their differences at mediation, and if they are unable to do so, the case will proceed to trial, with the judge or jury ultimately resolving the matters in dispute. Settlement talks or discussions at mediation are generally not admissible in evidence at trial.

In Utah, mediation is a common alternative dispute resolution process where a neutral third-party mediator assists the parties in a dispute to reach a voluntary settlement. Utah courts often encourage or require mediation in civil lawsuits before the case goes to trial. While participation in mediation is sometimes mandated, reaching an agreement is not compulsory. If the parties cannot settle their differences through mediation, the case will continue to trial where a judge or jury will make a final decision. Importantly, Utah law generally protects the confidentiality of mediation proceedings. This means that communications, negotiations, or settlement offers made during mediation are typically not admissible as evidence in court should the case proceed to trial. This confidentiality is designed to promote open and honest dialogue during mediation without fear that concessions or admissions will be used against a party later in court.