What is a significant characteristic of a negotiation process?

The negotiation process is fundamentally characterized by its aim to settle disputes. It is a collaborative approach in which parties involved engage in discussion and bargaining with the goal of reaching an agreement that resolves their differences. Negotiations can take place in various contexts—commercial, legal, interpersonal—and are not strictly confined to formal settings or mandates for legal representation.

Negotiation is often preferred over litigation because it can be less adversarial, more efficient, and potentially less costly. The parties may have more control over the outcome compared to the decisions made by a judge or jury in a courtroom. This characteristic highlights the nature of negotiation as a tool for conflict resolution.

While other options mention elements such as legal representation, formal court settings, or writing requirements, these are not essential features of the negotiation process itself. Negotiations can occur informally and do not necessarily require the presence of legal counsel. Additionally, they can be conducted verbally rather than in writing. The primary focus remains on the intent to resolve issues amicably between the parties involved.