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 mutually beneficial solutions.   It res

Massachusetts Takes Final Steps to Enact Its Own Deleading and Lead-Safe Renovation Law

It has finally happened! Massachusetts has taken the final steps to enact its own lead-based paint law for contractors who perform home renovation.  They will be moving to self-certify with the EPA to take over enforcement of the law shortly.  The MA law will take effect on July 9, 2010.  The goal is for MA to be authorized to enforce the  law on that date as well.  What does that mean for home improvement contractors?

I will be reading the final version of the law this weekend and will blog about it shortly.  My job is to understand the law and explain it to you, the public, in order to protect you.  More to come...

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