mediation checklist ...
5. Prepare your Client
Explain the Mediation process carefully, dispelling some of the common myths if you can.
Explain the benefits, and the alternatives if litigation or arbitration continues.
Explain that the Mediator is neutral, and that it is not necessary or appropriate to try to convince the Mediator of your client's point of view.
Take your client through the Statements of Case. Explain that the confidential section is for the Mediator's eyes only and will NOT be seen by the other parties.
Examine your client's attitude towards the case, do they have realistic expectations of the outcome? Explain weaknesses as well as strengths.
Find out, if you can, if there are any sensitive or personal issues involved - this happens surprisingly often. You and your client will be better prepared if they have been addressed by you in advance of the mediation.
Choose, with your client, the individuals who will attend, and make sure your client's representative has authority to settle. Do you need third parties, such as insurers or experts? But do NOT turn up mob handed - only bring those people you really need.
Explain confidentiality - make sure your client understands this on two levels - first, the confidentiality between each party and the mediator, and second, the confidentiality of the whole session as regards court and the outside world.
Explain that the Mediation process takes time, and that it is likely that there will be times when a way forward does not appear to be possible. (When this happens in the Mediation, encourage your client to think of creative ideas e.g. items that are important to the other party, but relatively 'cheap' for your client to give, and vice versa e.g. structured payments, use of other facilities in the future, special prices on new orders, parking.)
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