12
Jun
The submission of a well-crafted brief prior to the mediation is an excellent opportunity to give the mediator a real preview of your position in advance. It can be used to educate, persuade, and create a roadmap for settlement negotiations. It is to your benefit to submit same as it will save time at the […]
18
May
During the course of the private breakout sessions with the parties, the mediator is able to engage in a more candid discussion with counsel with respect to their case and their belief as to its strengths/weaknesses, and how they will likely address the opposing party’s case at the time of trial. It also gives the […]
21
Apr
Here are some do’s and don’ts which lead to a more effective joint session of your mediation: Do engage in a realistic discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of your case. Do not spend time posturing to impress or intimidate. Do recognize that every case is unique. Do not lump your case in with similar […]
06
Mar
INTRODUCTION There is no better way to settle your case than through mediation. The purpose of this article is to make suggestions to maximize your opportunities for success. As a full-time mediator, by virtue of sheer volume, you are involved in the resolution of more cases in one month than most attorneys are in their […]
24
Feb
During my fifteen years as a Judge, I have heard the testimony of hundreds of witnesses in all types of proceedings. As a trial attorney in private practice, I prepared a great number of witnesses to testify. Even with the best preparation, my father, who was a great trial lawyer, would say he would die […]
10
Jan
In the majority of cases, the parties to mediation ask the neutral for an evaluation of their case. This will encompass an analysis, inter alia, of the factual allegations, defenses, and issues of law, motion practice/decisions, venue/jury pool, and an evaluation with respect to jury verdict potential. The mediator will be making an assessment of […]
14
Dec
In the majority of cases, the parties to mediation ask the neutral for an evaluation of their case. This will encompass an analysis, inter alia, of the factual allegations, defenses, and issues of law, motion practice/decisions, venue/jury pool, and an evaluation with respect to jury verdict potential. The mediator will be making an assessment of […]
11
Nov
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to preside over numerous commercial arbitrations of all types. I have done so as the sole arbitrator and also as a member of a tri-panel. The decision to use a single arbitrator versus a tri-panel is a critical one. The decision as to the use of a […]
12
Oct
Always submit a brief. Use the brief to educate the mediator and your adversary as to your position in advance of the mediation. Use the brief to maximize your use of time and to avoid lengthy arguments during the joint session. Always exchange the brief with your adversary. Exclude from the brief any materials which […]
23
Sep
The purpose of placing an arbitration clause in a contract is to streamline the resolution of any disputes under the agreement. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) avoids the time, cost and uncertainty of litigating in court when a dispute arises. In drafting an arbitration clause, the goal is make the clause itself clear and to the […]