"To decide the dispute" means to make a final and official decision or judgment on a disagreement or argument between two or more parties. Full definition
It is understood that the mediator has no power to decide disputed issues for the parties. (smartmediator.com)
After consulting the parties, the tribunal may decide the dispute on the basis of documents and written evidence, with no oral hearing or examination of witnesses. (slaw.ca)
Clients also avoid the stress of having a judge decide their disputed issues. (mtpalaw.com)