Parties to a dispute may decide to use a mediator to assist them in resolving their differences. A mediator is an impartial person who brings the parties together in a meeting and attempts to help them find a solution to their dispute. The mediator, who is usually a trained professional does not have the power to make any binding rulings or decisions or impose his will on the parties. However, by meeting with the parties, together and separately in a mediation session, the mediator is often able to help the parties clarify issues, educate each other as to their respective positions, interest and needs, in order that they may reach an amicable settlement. Statements made in the course of a mediation by any party or the mediator are to be kept confidential, unless otherwise agreed to by the parties.   Since the mediator, unlike an arbitrator, does not issue a final decision or ruling concerning the case, the case will only settle if each party is willing to do so. Normally, the parties pay for the mediator's services equally unless otherwise agreed or ordered by a Court. For more information, you should consult your lawyer or the lawyer referral service of The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis.