Mediation is a voluntary confidential process in which a neutral third-party facilitator helps people discuss difficult issues and negotiate an agreement. Basic steps in the process include gathering information, framing the issues, developing options, negotiating, and formalizing agreements. Parties in mediation create their own solutions, the mediator does not have any decision-making power over the outcome. The Steps Are:
The parties meet with the mediator who introduces himself/herself and explains the program, the steps, and the expected outcome. The mediator then asks the parties to specify why they are present and state their goal(s). Each party states their goal(s) while the mediator takes notes and builds an "agenda." Sometimes a mediator will call a "caucus" meaning the mediator would like to speak to one of the parties privately. Either party may request a caucus with the equal right extended to the other party. Everything discussed in a caucus is strictly confidential between the party and the mediator; it is not shared with the other party except with permission. The mediator then proceeds to frame and discuss the agenda with the parties until a consensus is reached on each item.
