The participants in a mediation can vary depending on the nature of the dispute and the specific mediation process, but generally, the following individuals may participate:

• Parties to the dispute: These are the individuals or entities directly involved in the dispute.  They are the ones seeking a resolution to their conflict through the mediation process.

• Mediator: The mediator is a neutral and impartial third party responsible for facilitating communication, guiding the negotiation process, and assisting the parties in reaching a voluntary agreement.

• Legal Counsel: Parties involved in a dispute may choose to have legal representation during mediation.

• Support Personnel: Depending on the complexity of the dispute, parties may bring along support personnel such as financial advisors, experts, or consultants who can provide expertise in specific areas relevant to the dispute.

• Observers: In some case, parties may agree to have non-participating observers present during mediation sessions.  Observers could be individuals with a stake in the outcome, such as family members or colleagues.  The mediator reserves the right to ask any observer to leave mediation if they are effectively assisting in the process.

• Representatives: Corporations or organizations involved in a dispute may have representatives present at mediation sessions.  These representatives may have decision-making authority or may be there to provide information and perspectives.

It is important to note that the specific rules and procedures for mediation can vary, and the participants involved may depend on the type of mediation being conducted.

The duration of a mediation process can vary widely depending on several factors, including the complexity of the dispute, the number of issues involved, the willingness of the parties to cooperate, and the specific mediation process being used. 

In many cases, a mediation process can be completed in as little as one session but in some cases can take multiple sessions.

It’s important for the parties involved to have realistic expectations about the time commitment required for mediation and to approach the process with a genuine willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and negotiation.

The success rate of mediation can vary depending on the nature of the disputes being mediated, the skill of the mediator, the willingness of the parties to engage in the process, and other factors. Generally, mediation is considered to have a high success rate in terms of reaching agreements that are acceptable to the parties involved. Success in mediation is often measured by whether the parties are able to achieve a mutually agreed-upon resolution, rather than relying on a win-lose outcome as in litigation.

While the success rate of mediation is generally high, it’s important to note that not all mediations result in a settlement. In some cases, parties may still choose other dispute resolution mechanisms, such as litigation, if mediation does not lead to a satisfactory resolution. Additionally, success can be measured in various ways, and parties may have different expectations and goals for the mediation process.

Yes, in many cases, you can bring an attorney to mediation. Whether or not to have legal representation during mediation is a decision that the parties involved can make based on their preferences and the nature of the dispute.

It’s essential to discuss the role of the attorney with both the mediator and the other parties to ensure that everyone is on the same page. In some cases, parties may choose to attend mediation without legal representation, while in other situations, having an attorney present is deemed necessary.

If you are unsure about whether to bring an attorney to mediation, you may want to consult with legal counsel to discuss your specific situation and receive guidance on the best course of action.

The cost of mediation can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the dispute, the mediator’s fees, the number of sessions required, and any additional expenses associated with the process.

It’s important for parties to discuss fees and costs with the mediator in advance and to have a clear understanding of the financial arrangements. In some cases, the parties may agree to share the costs equally, while in others, the costs may be allocated based on specific terms outlined in a mediation agreement.

It’s worth noting that while mediation has associated costs, it is often more cost-effective than traditional litigation, as it can lead to a quicker resolution and can help prevent the expenses associated with prolonged legal proceedings. Additionally, the potential cost savings from avoiding litigation expenses may outweigh the cost of mediation for many parties.