Yes the IRS will mediate certain cases and we will discuss some of those next week.  However, I first want to explain what mediation is and why it works in many cases.  Mediation, or Alternative Dispute Resolution, is simply a negotiation session between two parties with a neutral, trained mediator helping both parties to compromise in everyone’s best interest.  There is a non-judicial solution to most problems and the mediator is trained to look at your problem in ways that you haven’t thought of.  The mediator does not make a decision for either party; instead he or she helps both of you reach a compromise.  It is a good system and mediation is required in Greenville County for almost all court cases before the case can go to trial.  I am a trained mediator and thus can represent the taxpayer more effectively in his mediation.  Of course, I could not act as your mediator since I would represent you.  You do not have to be involved in a lawsuit to utilize mediation.