Transcript:

1. Pre-Mediation

The parties are screened to determine if they are a fit for the mediation process. The mediator also takes time to review any court orders or other relevant case history.

2. Introduction

Before mediation officially begins, the mediator explains the process to the parties and they typically enter into an Agreement to Mediate at this time.

3. Explanation of Dispute

The parties are each given the opportunity to explain their perspective of the conflict. The mediator works to ensure that both parties are heard, and may facilitate communication between the parties about their views of the conflict.

4. Issue Identification

The mediator creates a list of the issues/interests addressed during Stage 3, and works with the parties to ensure all agree on the issues at hand.

5. Selecting Solutions

The mediator helps the parties generate ideas for resolving their issues. If an agreement is reached, the mediator summarizes the same to ensure no detail is missed.

6. CONCLUSION

If an agreement is reached, the mediator confirms how the same is to be memorialized and describes next steps. The mediator will finalize any paperwork, necessary, during this stage.