Schlichten

Schlichten is a German verb meaning to settle or mediate a dispute, usually by guiding the parties toward a peaceful agreement. The term covers both informal negotiation and formal processes aimed at conciliation rather than confrontation or litigation.

In use, one says, for example, "eine Auseinandersetzung schlichten" or "einen Konflikt schlichten," to indicate reaching an agreement without court action. A person who conducts this process is a Schlichter (male) or Schlichterin (female), a mediator or conciliator. The related noun "Schlichtung" denotes the act or process of conciliation.

Schlichtung is common in many German-speaking countries as a form of alternative dispute resolution. It can be voluntary or, in some contexts, recommended or required before proceeding to court. The outcome is typically a binding or quasi-binding agreement between the parties, depending on the legal framework and the terms agreed during mediation.

Schlichten contrasts with glätten (to smooth a surface) or vereinfachen (to simplify). It is often used in legal, employment, civil, or family-law contexts where a durable settlement is preferred over litigation.

See also: Schlichtung, Schlichter, Schlichterin, Schiedsverfahren.