Is Mediation Voluntary?

Other Mediation FAQs

• Q: What Is Mediation?
  A: Mediation is negotiation carried out with the help of a trained facilitator. Two or more parties meet with a neutral third party, who guides the negotiation process by … More
• Q: How Do We Get To Mediation?
  A: The mediation process is usually voluntary ­ the parties in a dispute come to an independent agreement to try to work things out with the help of a mediator. … More
• Q: How Much Time Is Required To Schedule A Mediation?
  A: Generally speaking, the parties themselves determine the scheduling of mediation, unlike in the court system where the "court docket" and relevant court rules define … More
• Q: Who Starts First In Mediation?
  A: There is no set format for the actual mediation process. However, as a general rule, all mediations involve a series of joint and separate meetings. The first step is … More
• Q: Who Keeps Things Under Control?
  A: After the initial airing of rules and views, the mediation enters a problem­solving phase. During this phase, often called the "Caucus Phase," the … More
• Q: What Happens When An Agreement Is Made In Mediation?
  A: Once the case is settled in a way that is agreeable to all sides, the mediator and/or parties will draft a document outlining the terms of the agreement and … More
• Q: Do I Need An Attorney For Mediation? Who Else Should Attend?
  A: Parties must carefully consider who should attend the mediation. It is particularly important that people with decision­making authority be present. A written … More