Litigation-I Win, You Lose vs. Mediation-Win/Win

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  Litigation is a zero-sum game.  It destroys relationships and fosters enmity between the parties.  Parties rarely walk away happy.  Even if they win, the expense of litigation is enormous, and collecting on judgments is difficult. Disputes ultimately resolve, but the focus on winning at any cost can lead to prolonged legal battles.  Living with a lawsuit causes ongoing stress, which can distract you from your business and even have an effect on your health. In a courtroom, the final decision lies with a judge or jury who may not fully grasp the complexities of the case. Parties relinquish control over the outcome, potentially leaving them dissatisfied with the final judgment. Mediation has the opposite effect.   Rather than polarizing people, it enables the parties to attack the issues and not each other.     The process promotes open communication, collaboration and problem-solving, which enables parties to actively participate in crafting ...

Lead-Based Paint RRP Rule-Update-EPA Delays Fine

Word came from the Environmental Protection Agency that the EPA will not be enforcing the certification requirement until October 1, 2010.  What does this mean for contractors?  You still need to follow the lead-safe practices, hand out the Lead-Safe booklet, etc.  Contractors will have to be enrolled in a certified renovator class by September 30, 2010, and must have completed the training by December 31, 2010.

Here is the link to the memorandum:

http://www.dealer.org/files/EPA_Delay_Announcement_6_18_10.pdf

This memorandum was sent in recognition of the fact that contractors have had difficulty finding open slots in the training classes.  That said, contractor still need to be familiar with the rule and continue to follow the correct procedures when disturbing lead paint in pre-1978 homes.

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