Deciding to use mediation is a big step, and picking the right person to guide you through it matters a lot. It’s not just about finding someone who knows the rules; it’s about finding someone you can trust to help you and the other party sort things out. This guide is here to help you figure out what to look for when choosing a mediator, so you can feel more confident about the whole process.
Key Takeaways
- Look for mediators with experience in cases similar to yours.
- Understand the mediator’s style and how it fits your situation.
- Verify the mediator’s neutrality and commitment to ethical standards.
- Don’t hesitate to ask potential mediators about their fees and confidentiality rules.
- Consider cultural fit and accessibility when choosing a mediator.
Understanding the Mediator’s Role and Qualifications
Choosing a mediator isn’t just a box to check off your to-do list. It’s a decision that can shape the whole mediation process from start to finish. Below, we’ll break down what you should know about what mediators actually do (and don’t do), the types of mediators out there, and what qualifications matter if you want the process to run smoothly.
What a Mediator Does and Does Not Do
A mediator steps in as a neutral guide. Their job is to keep conversations on track, ask the right questions, and help both sides feel heard—not to pick a winner or hand down a ruling. Here’s what you can (and can’t) expect:
- Facilitates communication: Mediators help each side express their point of view and unpack tricky emotions.
- Sets ground rules and keeps things respectful.
- Encourages brainstorming and flexible problem-solving—and helps you find common ground.
But mediators do not:
- Decide the outcome or force an agreement on anyone
- Take anyone’s side in the dispute
- Offer legal advice
If you expect a mediator to "decide" your case, you’ll likely be disappointed—the solutions come from the participants themselves.
Types of Mediators and Specializations
Mediators often focus on a specific kind of dispute. It matters more than you might think—someone who handles family divorce cases every day may not be the best pick for a business partnership meltdown. Here’s a short table highlighting common specializations:
| Type | Typical Cases |
|---|---|
| Family Mediator | Divorce, custody, parenting agreements |
| Workplace Mediator | Employee disputes, team conflicts |
| Community Mediator | Neighborhood, landlord-tenant issues |
| Commercial Mediator | Contract, partnership, or customer disputes |
| Civil Mediator | Property, small claims, local lawsuits |
Some mediators also handle niche areas, like healthcare, environmental issues, or even online disputes.
Credentials and Qualifications for Mediators
Not all mediators are created equal. Formal training is the baseline, but experience and ongoing education make a big difference. Qualifications, however, aren’t set in stone—rules vary by location.
Look for:
- Mediation-specific training or coursework (not just general legal background)
- Certificates from recognized mediation programs, or court-approved panels
- Membership in professional mediation organizations (these usually come with codes of conduct)
- Regular continuing education (mediation trends and laws change!)
If a mediator can’t easily explain their qualifications—or gets annoyed when you ask—that’s a sign to keep searching. The right mediator will welcome your questions and be upfront about their background.
Assessing Mediator Experience and Approach
When you’re picking a mediator, you’re not just choosing any neutral third party—you’re selecting someone whose experience and approach will shape your whole dispute resolution process.
Experience with Similar Cases
A mediator’s background matters. You’ll want someone who has handled disputes like yours before, because they’ll know the typical hurdles and can spot issues early. For example, a family mediator might not be the best pick if you’ve got a tricky business contract fight. Ask them:
- What types of cases do you usually handle?
- Have you worked with clients in situations similar to mine?
- How do you handle complex or multi-party disputes?
Getting specific helps you avoid surprises down the road.
| Case Type | Experience to Look For |
|---|---|
| Family | Divorce, custody, parenting plans |
| Workplace | Employee disputes, harassment |
| Commercial | Contracts, partnerships, IP |
| Community | Neighborhood, tenant-landlord |
Subject-Matter Expertise
Not all mediators are generalists; some dig deep into particular fields. If your dispute involves technical jargon or industry regulations, subject-matter expertise becomes a major advantage. They’ll understand the language, stakes, and hidden nuances.
- Industry knowledge helps untangle confusion.
- Specialist mediators can read between the lines.
- Complex disputes (like healthcare or intellectual property) almost always call for an insider’s perspective.
Mediation Style and Approach
This isn’t just about personality—different mediators manage conflict in different ways, which can completely change your experience. The main styles are:
- Facilitative: Guides you to your own solutions, asks open-ended questions, focuses on self-determination.
- Evaluative: Offers feedback, reality checks, maybe even legal insights—useful for clear-cut, numbers-driven disputes.
- Transformative: Focuses on understanding and long-term relationship repair rather than just a quick settlement.
Most mediators use some mix, shaped by the dispute and the people involved. It’s okay to ask them upfront:
- What’s your approach to resolving differences?
- How actively do you get involved in suggesting options?
- Can you adjust your style to fit what we need?
Choosing the right mediator is about fit—not just credentials. Ask direct questions, listen to how they describe their process, and picture yourself working with them. The right mediator for your situation should make you feel understood, not just processed.
Evaluating Mediator Neutrality and Ethical Standards
When you’re looking for someone to help sort out a disagreement, it’s super important that they stay fair and honest. This is where checking out a mediator’s neutrality and their ethical compass comes in. You want to feel confident that the person guiding the conversation isn’t playing favorites or pushing their own agenda. It’s all about building trust so you can actually talk things through.
Ensuring Impartiality and Trustworthiness
At its core, a mediator’s job is to be a neutral guide. They shouldn’t lean towards one side or the other. This means they need to be aware of their own potential biases, even the ones they don’t realize they have. A good mediator will also be upfront about any situations that might make them seem less than neutral, like if they know one of the parties involved from somewhere else. Trustworthiness is built on this perceived and actual impartiality. It’s not just about being fair; it’s about appearing fair to everyone involved.
Transparency in Disclosures
Part of being trustworthy is being open about things. Mediators should tell you if they have any connection to the people involved in the dispute, or if there’s any other reason they might not be completely neutral. This could be a past relationship, a financial interest, or even just a professional connection. They should also be clear about the limits of confidentiality – what you say in mediation usually stays private, but there are exceptions, and they need to explain those. This openness helps everyone feel more secure about the process.
Adherence to Ethical Frameworks
Professional mediators usually follow specific rules or codes of conduct. These aren’t just suggestions; they’re guidelines that help mediators act ethically and competently. These frameworks cover things like how they should behave, how they handle sensitive information, and what they should do if they realize they can’t be neutral. Looking into whether a mediator belongs to a professional organization and follows its standards can give you a good idea of their commitment to ethical practice. It shows they’re serious about doing the job right.
Key Questions for Choosing a Mediator
So, you’ve decided mediation is the way to go. That’s a big step! But before you jump in, picking the right mediator is super important. It’s not just about finding someone who knows the rules; it’s about finding someone who clicks with your situation and can actually help you get somewhere. Think of it like hiring a guide for a tricky hike – you want someone experienced and trustworthy. Asking the right questions upfront can save you a lot of headaches later on. It helps you understand if they’re a good fit and what you can expect.
Inquiring About Relevant Experience
This is where you dig into their background. You want to know if they’ve handled cases similar to yours. It doesn’t have to be an exact match, but understanding their history gives you a good idea of how they might approach your specific issues. For example, if you’re dealing with a complex business dispute, a mediator who primarily handles family matters might not be the best choice, even if they’re a great mediator overall.
Here are some things to ask:
- Have you mediated disputes like this before? (e.g., contract disagreements, workplace conflicts, family estate issues)
- What types of outcomes have parties typically reached in cases you’ve mediated?
- Can you describe a challenging case you handled and how you navigated it?
The mediator’s track record with similar situations can offer insights into their problem-solving capabilities and their understanding of common pitfalls.
Understanding Their Mediation Approach
Mediators aren’t all the same. They have different styles, and knowing their approach helps you see if it aligns with what you need. Some mediators are more directive, offering opinions or suggestions, while others are purely facilitative, guiding the conversation without getting involved in the substance of the dispute. It’s about finding a style that feels comfortable and productive for you.
Consider these points:
- Do you primarily use a facilitative, evaluative, or transformative style?
- How do you typically structure a mediation session?
- What are your strategies for dealing with strong emotions or impasses during mediation?
Clarifying Fee Structures and Confidentiality
Money and privacy are big concerns for most people. You need to be clear on how the mediator charges and what their confidentiality rules are. Some mediators charge by the hour, others have flat fees, and some might offer packages. Understanding this upfront helps avoid surprises. Similarly, knowing how confidential the process is can make you feel more comfortable sharing openly.
Key questions to ask:
- What is your hourly rate, or what are your fee options for this type of case?
- Are there any additional costs I should be aware of (e.g., administrative fees, preparation time)?
- What are your policies regarding confidentiality, and are there any exceptions I should know about?
| Fee Structure | Description |
|---|---|
| Hourly Rate | Charged for each hour the mediator works. |
| Flat Fee | A set price for the entire mediation process. |
| Package Deal | Bundled services for a fixed price. |
| Retainer | Upfront payment against future services. |
Navigating Mediator Fees and Costs
When you’re looking into mediation, figuring out the money side of things is a big part of the puzzle. It’s not always straightforward, and understanding how mediators charge can save you headaches later on. Most mediators have a fee structure, and it’s good to know what to expect before you commit.
Understanding Different Fee Structures
Mediators typically charge in a few different ways. The most common is an hourly rate. This means you pay for the actual time the mediator spends working on your case, which includes sessions, preparation, and follow-up. Rates can vary a lot depending on the mediator’s experience and where they practice. Another option is a flat fee, where you pay a set amount for the entire mediation process or a specific stage. This can be helpful for budgeting, as you know the total cost upfront. Some mediators also offer package deals, which might bundle several sessions or specific services for a combined price. It’s always best to ask potential mediators to explain their fee structure clearly.
- Hourly Rates: Common, but costs can add up.
- Flat Fees: Predictable budgeting.
- Package Deals: Bundled services for a set price.
Assessing Value and Cost-Effectiveness
While cost is important, it’s also about getting good value. Mediation is usually much cheaper than going to court, so even with fees, it’s often a more affordable way to resolve a dispute. Think about what you’re getting for your money: the mediator’s skill, their ability to help you reach an agreement, and the time and stress you save by avoiding a lengthy legal battle. A mediator who is highly experienced in your type of case might charge more, but they could also help you reach a resolution faster and more effectively. Consider the potential costs of not settling – ongoing legal fees, lost time, and emotional strain. When comparing mediators, look beyond just the hourly rate and consider their overall effectiveness and how well they fit your situation. You can find more information on choosing a mediator.
The true cost of mediation isn’t just the fee paid to the mediator; it’s also the value derived from a faster, less adversarial resolution that preserves relationships and reduces long-term conflict.
Seeking Affordable Mediation Options
If cost is a major concern, there are ways to find more affordable mediation. Some mediators offer reduced rates for lower-income individuals or for specific types of cases, like community or family disputes. Many community mediation centers offer services on a sliding scale or even for free. Court systems sometimes provide mediation services as part of their process, which can be less expensive. Don’t hesitate to discuss your budget with potential mediators; they might be able to suggest alternative arrangements or point you toward resources that can help. Sometimes, agreeing on a shorter mediation timeframe can also help manage costs. Remember, the goal is a fair resolution, and affordability shouldn’t be a complete barrier to achieving that.
Considering Cultural Competence and Accessibility
When you’re looking for someone to help sort out a disagreement, it’s not just about their experience or how they talk. You also need to think about whether they can really connect with everyone involved, no matter their background. This means looking at how they handle different cultural viewpoints and if they make the process easy for everyone to access.
Cultural Sensitivity in Mediation
Different cultures have different ways of communicating and seeing problems. A mediator who understands this can help bridge gaps that might otherwise cause confusion or frustration. They know that what seems direct in one culture might be rude in another, or that family roles can play a big part in how a dispute is handled. It’s important that the mediator respects these differences and doesn’t assume everyone thinks or acts the same way. They should be aware of potential misunderstandings that can arise from varying communication styles, values, and norms.
- Communication Styles: Some cultures prefer direct talk, while others are more indirect. A sensitive mediator will notice this and adjust their approach.
- Values and Norms: Understanding what’s important to different cultural groups can help the mediator find solutions that are truly acceptable.
- Perception of Authority: How people view authority figures can differ, impacting how they interact with the mediator and each other.
A mediator’s ability to adapt to diverse cultural backgrounds can significantly impact the fairness and effectiveness of the mediation process. It’s about creating a space where everyone feels understood and respected, regardless of their cultural upbringing.
Language Access and Accommodations
If people involved in the mediation don’t speak the same language fluently, or if someone has a disability, the process needs to be set up to include them. This might mean using a professional interpreter, providing materials in different formats, or making sure the meeting space is physically accessible. It’s not just about being fair; it’s about making sure everyone can actually participate and be heard.
- Professional Interpreters: Using qualified interpreters is key for accuracy and neutrality when language barriers exist.
- Accessible Materials: Providing documents in large print, braille, or digital formats can help those with visual impairments.
- Physical Accessibility: Meeting locations should be easy to get to for people with mobility issues.
- Flexible Scheduling: Accommodating different needs might mean adjusting session times or lengths.
Ensuring Inclusivity for Fair Process
Ultimately, the goal is a process where everyone feels they have a fair chance to share their side and work towards a resolution. This means the mediator needs to be mindful of power differences, whether they stem from cultural backgrounds, economic status, or other factors. An inclusive approach helps build trust and makes it more likely that any agreement reached will be one that all parties can genuinely commit to. It’s about making sure the mediation process works for everyone, not just a select few.
Identifying Red Flags When Choosing a Mediator
When you’re picking a mediator, it’s easy to focus just on credentials and experience—but sometimes the things you should worry about aren’t in the brochure. If you end up with a mediator who shows bias or makes unrealistic promises, it can throw off the entire process. Identifying early warning signs is the single best way to avoid wasted time and frustration.
Warning Signs of Inappropriate Conduct
It’s natural to assume every professional plays by the rules, but that isn’t always the case. Here are some behaviors to watch out for:
- The mediator suggests they’re working for you—not for both sides.
- Private meetings become secret deals, instead of transparent discussions.
- Unprofessional language or dismissive comments are common.
- Your questions about process or rules are dodged or ignored.
If a mediator rushes you or makes you feel uncomfortable when voicing concerns, that’s reason enough to pause and rethink your choice.
Avoiding Guaranteed Outcomes
No one can actually guarantee how a mediation will turn out. If you hear promises like "You’ll get exactly what you want," or "This will resolve 100% in your favor," that’s a major red flag. True mediators help facilitate, not decide, and outcomes are always up to both sides. Anyone guaranteeing a win is overselling.
Quick ways to spot overpromises:
- Using words like "guaranteed result" or "assured outcome."
- Offering insider knowledge that supposedly tips the process.
- Minimizing the impact or participation of the other party.
Recognizing Bias Indicators
A mediator’s first job is to remain neutral. Sometimes, though, bias can slip through in subtle ways. Watch out for:
- The mediator overtly sympathizes with only one person.
- Unequal attention (one party gets longer sessions or more time to talk).
- Skipping the chance for both sides to share concerns.
- Dismissing ideas without explanation, especially from one side.
| Red Flag Example | Why It’s a Problem |
|---|---|
| Only listening to one party | Shifts power and trust unfairly |
| Dismissing legitimate concerns | Can cause resentment and deadlock |
| Making legal recommendations | Crosses from neutral into advocacy |
Sometimes it’s awkward to walk away or challenge a mediator. But trust your gut if something feels off, and don’t be afraid to ask direct questions about neutrality, process, or how the session will be run.
Preparing for Effective Mediation Engagement
Getting ready for mediation isn’t just about showing up. It’s about making sure you’re in the best possible spot to get what you need out of the process. Think of it like preparing for an important meeting – you wouldn’t go in cold, right? Mediation is similar, but with higher stakes for your dispute. Being prepared helps you communicate better, understand your options, and ultimately, work towards a resolution that actually works for you.
Clarifying Personal Goals and Interests
Before you even talk to a mediator, take some time to really think about what you want. What’s the ideal outcome here? What are you absolutely not willing to budge on? It’s easy to get caught up in what the other side is doing or saying, but the most productive mediations happen when people focus on their own needs and what’s driving their position. What are your underlying interests? Sometimes, what you think you want (your position) isn’t the same as what you really need (your interest). For example, your position might be "I want the fence moved back 10 feet," but your interest might be "I need privacy from my neighbor’s yard." Understanding this difference is key.
Here’s a quick way to break it down:
- What are my main goals? (What do I hope to achieve?)
- What are my core interests? (Why are these goals important to me? What needs are being met?)
- What are my "must-haves"? (What are the non-negotiables?)
- What are my "nice-to-haves"? (What would be good, but not essential?)
- What are my alternatives if we don’t reach an agreement? (What’s my Plan B?)
Gathering Necessary Documentation
Having the right papers with you can make a big difference. It’s not about overwhelming the mediator or the other party, but about having facts and evidence readily available to support your points or to help clarify misunderstandings. This could include contracts, emails, financial statements, photos, or anything else that directly relates to the issues you’ll be discussing. Don’t bring everything you own; just bring what’s relevant and helps tell the story of the dispute. It’s also a good idea to have copies for yourself and the other party, if appropriate.
Understanding the Mediation Process
Knowing what to expect can ease a lot of anxiety. Mediation isn’t like a court trial. The mediator is there to help you talk things through, not to judge who’s right or wrong. They’ll explain the rules, manage the conversation, and help you explore options. You’ll likely have a chance to speak, and the mediator might meet with each party separately in private sessions called caucuses. The mediator’s job is to facilitate, not to decide. Understanding these basic steps helps you participate more effectively and reduces the chance of being surprised by how the process works. It’s a structured conversation, and knowing the structure helps you prepare your contributions.
Working Effectively During Mediation Sessions
Once you’re in the mediation room, whether in person or online, your active participation is key. It’s not just about showing up; it’s about engaging with the process and the mediator. Think of it as a structured conversation where the goal is to find common ground. The mediator is there to help guide this conversation, but the real work happens when you and the other party(ies) communicate effectively.
Practicing Active Listening
This means really hearing what the other person is saying, not just waiting for your turn to speak. Try to understand their perspective, even if you don’t agree with it. A good way to do this is to paraphrase what you heard. For example, you could say, "So, if I understand correctly, you’re concerned about X because of Y." This shows you’re paying attention and helps clear up any misunderstandings right away. It’s about listening to understand, not just to respond.
Maintaining Openness to Options
Mediation is about finding solutions, and sometimes those solutions aren’t what you initially expected. Be prepared to consider different possibilities. The mediator might suggest options you haven’t thought of, or the other party might propose something that, on the surface, seems unworkable. Take a moment to explore these ideas. Often, a creative solution lies in combining elements of different proposals or looking at the underlying needs driving them.
Focusing on Underlying Interests
It’s easy to get stuck on specific demands or positions – "I want this," or "I won’t accept that." But mediation works best when you look beyond these positions to the interests behind them. What is it you truly need or want to achieve? Is it financial security, a good relationship with your co-parent, a stable business partnership, or simply to be heard? Identifying these underlying interests can open up a wider range of solutions that satisfy everyone’s core needs. The mediator will often help you uncover these interests through careful questioning.
The mediator’s role is to facilitate, not to decide. Your active engagement, willingness to listen, and openness to exploring various solutions are what drive the process forward. Remember that the goal is a mutually agreeable outcome, and that often requires a shift from rigid positions to a focus on underlying needs and interests.
Understanding the Role of Advisors in Mediation
When to Involve Attorneys or Advisors
Sometimes, you might think about bringing along a lawyer or some other kind of advisor to mediation. This isn’t always necessary, but it can be really helpful depending on what’s going on. If your situation is pretty complicated, especially if it involves a lot of legal stuff or technical details, having someone who knows that area well can make a big difference. They can help you understand the finer points of what’s being discussed and what your options really mean. It’s also a good idea if you’re worried about making sure any agreement you reach is legally sound. Think of them as your personal support system during the process, there to offer specific advice related to your case. They can help you understand legal advice and make sure you’re not missing anything important.
How Advisors Support Your Participation
An advisor’s main job is to back you up. They’re there to help you understand the information being shared, not to take over. They can help you think through different proposals and consider the potential outcomes, acting as a sounding board for your thoughts. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about a particular point, your advisor can step in to clarify things or help you formulate your response. They can also help review any proposed settlement agreement to make sure it aligns with your goals and legal standing. It’s about making sure you feel confident and informed throughout the entire mediation.
Mediator’s Role Versus Advisor’s Role
It’s really important to remember that the mediator and your advisor have different jobs. The mediator is neutral; they don’t take sides and they don’t give advice about what you should do. Their job is to manage the process and help you and the other party talk things through to find your own solution. Your advisor, on the other hand, is there specifically to support you. They can offer opinions, legal insights, and help you strategize.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Mediator: Facilitates communication, manages the process, remains neutral.
- Advisor: Provides specific advice, supports your participation, advocates for your interests.
Think of it this way: the mediator helps you both get to the finish line together, while your advisor makes sure you’re running the race in the best way possible for yourself.
Setting Communication Expectations
When people step into mediation, how everyone talks to each other can make or break the process. Setting clear communication expectations from the start helps everyone feel heard and can stop simple misunderstandings from turning into bigger problems.
Fostering Respectful Dialogue
- Mediators set ground rules early on, so all parties know what’s considered respectful during their conversations.
- Interruptions and personal attacks are addressed, keeping the environment safe and productive.
- Everyone is reminded that listening is just as important as speaking.
A respectful attitude lays the groundwork for honest communication and helps prevent conflict from escalating.
Ensuring Honest Communication
- Parties are encouraged to express their interests and concerns openly. Avoiding hidden agendas leads to better solutions.
- The mediator will usually ask clarifying questions to check for understanding and to make sure everyone’s true intentions are on the table.
- Confidentiality rules should be explained so people feel comfortable being honest, knowing personal details won’t be used against them later.
Common Practices for Honest Communication:
- Speaking from personal experience rather than assigning blame.
- Using "I" statements (like, "I feel…" or "I am concerned about…").
- Asking questions if unsure about something.
Reducing Conflict Through Clear Expectations
- The mediator explains what’s expected from everyone, including active listening, courtesy, and keeping discussions on topic.
- Specific strategies are introduced to manage tension, like pausing the session or taking short breaks if things get heated.
- All parties review and agree to ground rules in advance so nobody is surprised if called out for crossing a line.
| Expectation | Example Rule | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Speak respectfully | No talking over others or insults | Builds trust |
| Listen actively | Let others finish before responding | Reduces miscommunication |
| Remain on topic | Avoid side issues or distractions | Keeps mediation efficient |
| Be honest and open | Share interests, not just demands | Finds real solutions |
Clear expectations for communication set the tone for productive sessions. They remind everyone that progress comes from patience, honesty, and a willingness to truly listen—not just to argue their side.
Conclusion
Choosing a mediator isn’t something to rush. It’s worth taking the time to look at their style, experience, and how they handle different situations. Not every mediator fits every dispute, so matching their approach to your needs can make a big difference. Ask questions about their background, fees, and how they keep things fair and neutral. Don’t forget to check if they’re comfortable working with your culture or language, or if you need any special accommodations. Being prepared—knowing your goals, gathering your documents, and understanding the process—can help you get more out of mediation. In the end, a good mediator helps everyone feel heard and keeps the conversation moving, but it’s up to the parties to work toward a solution. Taking these steps before you start can set the stage for a smoother, more productive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does a mediator do?
A mediator is like a referee for a disagreement. They help people talk to each other and find solutions together. They don’t take sides or tell people what to do. Their main job is to make sure everyone can communicate and explore options fairly.
How do I know if a mediator is good at their job?
You can check if they have training and experience, especially with cases like yours. Good mediators are usually upfront about their background and how they handle mediations. They should also be clear about their fees and how they keep things private.
What’s the difference between different types of mediators?
Some mediators focus on specific areas like family issues, workplace problems, or business disagreements. Others might have a certain style, like being more guiding or more focused on the legal side. It’s good to find someone whose specialty and style fit your situation.
Why is it important for a mediator to be neutral?
Neutrality means the mediator doesn’t favor one person over another. This is super important because it helps everyone feel safe and trust that the process is fair. If a mediator seems biased, it’s hard to reach a good agreement.
How much does a mediator cost?
Mediator fees can be different. Some charge by the hour, others have a set fee for the whole process, or they might offer packages. It’s best to ask upfront about their rates and what’s included to avoid surprises.
What does it mean for a mediator to be culturally competent?
This means the mediator understands and respects that people come from different backgrounds and have different ways of communicating. They can also help if language barriers are an issue or if someone needs special accommodations, making sure everyone is included.
Are there any warning signs when picking a mediator?
Yes, be careful if a mediator promises a specific outcome or outcome. Also, watch out for anyone who seems to be taking sides, isn’t clear about their fees, or doesn’t seem trustworthy. Doing your homework is key.
What should I do to get ready for mediation?
Before mediation, think about what you really want to achieve. Gather any important papers or information related to the issue. Understanding the steps of mediation will also help you feel more prepared and participate better.