Mediation FAQs

Mediation:   What to expect?

How does Mediation work?
When parties agree to mediate they will each have the chance to speak and be listened to, to ask questions and state their point of view.

The Mediator will:
• provide a process for parties to safely and privately discuss their concerns
• assist parties to understand each other’s point of view
• keep the meeting focused
• help parties work out a resolution they can both agree on
• encourage the parties to write up the agreement as a binding record of settlement if the parties want that.

Who attends the Mediation?
The people attending mediations are those who want to resolve the dispute and a mediator.
This usually means the parties to the dispute and, if they wish, their advocates, representatives and/or support people, and the mediator.

How long does the process take?
The SCCA schedules time for mediation as soon as all the parties and a mediator are available.
The meetings usually last around three or four hours but some can last all day.

Do we want to offer Mediator Consultation?
The mediator may contact you before the mediation date to discuss options for the best process to meet your and the other party’s needs.