The Flexibility of Mediation as a Tool for Resolving Patent Disputes - Successful Mediations Don't Necessarily End in Settlements

摘要

The notion of successful mediations of patent disputes need not be limited to achieving final settlements. The mediation process provides a degree of openness, flexibility, and confidentiality that makes it an extremely powerful and valuable tool, particularly for resolving technically and legally complex patent disputes. While mediation can result in a final and complete settlement, the process is equally well suited as a tool to facilitate a range of interim objectives which may make the litigation process itself more cost-effective and time-efficient and an eventual settlement more likely.