Do give consideration in advance as to what confidential information will be revealed to the mediator in the breakout session. Do not attempt to rush the mediator into giving an evaluation of the merits of the case. Do give the mediator ample opportunity to speak to both sides. Do not become mired in arguments as […]

Under the best of circumstances, mediation may not result in the resolution of a litigated dispute. This may be as a result of factors which are not under the control of the parties. However, mediations are often negatively affected by basic mistakes involving factors that are within the parties’ control. While many of the following […]

Prepare the client for the mediation much in the way you prepare them for trial. Consider how you will manage their expectations. Give them a realistic analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of their case in advance. Discuss the mediation process in detail. Explain the mediator’s background and role. Do not rush the process. Make […]

Many cases that come to mediation involve novel questions of law. Invariably, there will be a dispute as to the proper law applicable to the case and the interpretation of appellate decisions that impact upon same. It is common for parties in the context of their pre-mediation brief to cite case law with a summarization […]

Volume is a great teacher. Nothing could have fully prepared me for the bench even though I tried many cases in private practice and spent a great deal of time in the courthouse. The sheer number of cases and the decisions that had to be made in a day dwarfed any type of previous experience. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]