Preparing For Your Mediation Session

Mediation may be entirely different than litigation, and the atmosphere seemed more relax than when in the courtroom, nevertheless, the pressure is just the same. Intense preparation must still be in order so that things will run as smooth as possible. In every dispute, emotions could run amok and disrupt any on-going mediation process which is why it is imperative that you have made your assignment well and have already briefed the concerned individuals about the possibilities. As a mediator, you should never take things lightly and must never facilitation the mediation without due preparations. Here is how you should conduct yourself when preparing for a mediation session:
• Study the dispute and determine all the essential elements of the issue. It is important that you have a thorough knowledge on the nature of the dispute so you can render effective mediation service.
• Make sure that you have fully briefed the parties involved about the nature of the mediation, and their corresponding roles while the mediation process is taking place. Make them understand that they should conduct themselves according to the agreed policy.
• Condition yourself for surprises. It is expected that new developments will come out in the course of the mediation. The degree of your preparation will be heavily tested in how you confront surprises.
• Be willing to give full ears to every statement issued by both parties. You must listen carefully to everything they say so you could thoroughly follow their thoughts and it will help you become a better mediator.
• Clear all you biases and prejudices regarding the standing issue as it could affect your efficacy in mediating. Be reasonable with your opinions, and as much as possible do not discuss the issue with anyone else as you and the statement you made might be misconstrued, and it will certainly be detrimental to the mediation process.
The disputing parties must make some preparations as the outcome of the mediation could certainly impact them first-hand. As with most cases, the people who are most prepared wins and you certainly would not want to draw the short stick on this one. Here are a few preparation tips for the participants and representatives:
• Choose carefully the mediator you want to mediate for the dispute. Certainly, you wouldn’t choose someone who is especially biased against you. Also, prefer a mediator who already has enough experience and has already proved his mettle in the field of mediation.
• Relax your mind and never be fully disturbed with the issue. Be prepared to stand on your ground and make preparations to ask for the mediation to halt when your own requirements are not met.
• Be prepared and learn as much as possible about the location where the mediation will take place. The location will make a great impact on the course of the mediation.


Alternative Law has been appointed as a neutral government internal mediator. We mediate and settle cases for you, and also offer Business mediation services. Our Mediation Services are available across the country. We have a very high rate of client satisfaction, because of the success of our best practices and result driven settlement programs.