MEDIATION: Intervention by an impartial third party to settle disputes between two others. The actions of this third party--the mediator--are not legally binding. Mediators are frequently used in collective bargaining negotiations when unions and their employers have reached an impasse. Mediators help both sides work out a satisfactory agreement. But neither side is legally compelled to follow the mediator's advice. See also | labor union | collective bargaining | arbitration | strike | lockout | boycott | labor agreement |
