The judge will require mediation because mediation is economical. The settlement is viewed as fair by both parties. There is one court meeting. You do not need to subpoena witnesses or evidence and depend on their presence at trial. You do not have to conduct extensive trial preparation.
Mediation preserves personal and business relationships. It allows debtors to arrange repayment plans, avoid judgment, and preserve credit reputation. Mediation protects privacy and avoids the publicity of the trial. Both parties remain in control and participate in a "win-win" solution. The agreement is final and the dispute resolved.