A Few Tips:
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Know your goals. Think about what you need to resolve the dispute and where you may have flexibility.
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Bring relevant documents. Contracts, emails, financial records, timelines, and other important information can help the mediator understand the issues.
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Be prepared to listen. Mediation is a conversation, not a courtroom argument. Understanding the other party's concerns can help identify potential solutions.
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Keep an open mind. A successful resolution may look different from what you originally expected.
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Be realistic. Consider the financial cost, time, stress, and uncertainty associated with continuing a dispute.
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Let the mediator facilitate communication. The mediator is there to help parties identify issues and evaluate options, not take sides.
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Come prepared to negotiate. You do not have to agree to anything, but meaningful negotiations require a willingness to consider reasonable alternatives.
The purpose of mediation is to create a structured environment where productive discussions can take place.
