Mediation Over Litigation: Why Choose the Former?

Debra Hamilton, JD, principal attorney at Hamilton Law and Mediation, discusses why veterinarians should choose mediation over litigation.

Interview Transcript (slightly modified for readability)

“For veterinarians faced with litigation, it can be scary or terrifying, which is why I started my practice. I give them the opportunity to take a step back and have a conversation before litigation ensues. Insurance companies sometimes require clients to sue veterinarians before they go and represent veterinarians. I teach veterinarians how to advocate for themselves and ask their insurance companies if they can mediate before they’re sued. This way, they can address it confidentially, it’s a voluntary process, and they can really find a way to solve it on their own and the insurance company will save not only the veterinarian from the angst of litigation and having their license reviewed, but also cost in money and good will that veterinarians lose through litigation. Not to mention the wellness aspect of veterinary medicine where you get so [anxious] and scared and frightened because you’re being sued. If you were given the opportunity to resolve this conflict without litigation, you should grab it and you should advocate for it with your insurance company because it will save you time, money, your client, and if you use mediation, you can turn that client into being one of your greatest advocates.”