Did you know that the US Department of Agriculture administers agriculture mediation programs organized at the state level to help mediate right-to-farm and federal farm program disputes for free? You can find the fact sheet for the program here. I am on the agriculture mediation roster for both New York and New Jersey, and pending admission on the Illinois roster. …
I have noted for years my ability to conduct meditations “virtually” via GoToMeeting or Skype. I’ve been speaking to clients via GoToMeeting but I can also conduct meditations using this technology. Of course, it is more productive to meet in person but a lot can still be accomplished by having these conversations “virtually.” For family law matters, I mediate both …
The mediator should begin the mediation session with laying a few ground rules. Here are some examples: 1. Explaining his/her role in the process 2. Reminding everyone about confidentiality and how the information used in the mediation is for “settlement purposes” and cannot be used in court 3. Depending on preference, asking the parties to put cellphones on silent or …
Initial Contact. Typically, one person calls the mediator at first and requests a telephonic or in-person consultation. If the initial consultation is given to only one party, then in efforts to stay neutral, private time with the mediator is also offered to the other person. Some mediators choose to charge for the initial consultation. Confidentiality Agreement. During this stage, …
In yesterday’s post, I noted what mediation is NOT. Well, this is what mediation IS: Mediation is a Conversation Put simply, the role of the mediator is to facilitate a conversation between the parties The mediator is not there to listen to testimony like a trial or arbitration. Albeit “heated” at times, a mediation session is conversation focused. Mediation Allows …
I recently read this blog post and it made me think: why would someone prefer “virtual mediation” via Skype or some other video conferencing tool? Lots of reasons. Here are a few: 1. Travel Time/Expense. Perhaps you are a food or agriculture producer or agribusiness owner and do not live/work around New York City. Or perhaps you live in New …