The Convening Stage : Lesson 5

Identify the convening stage of mediation, which is often the most difficult part of resolving a dispute. This stage begins when a party makes a request for mediation, either to another party or to a mediator. This is where a skillful mediator must decide and analyze the best strategy for getting the parties to participate in the mediation process. Instruction will be given to the participants on how to handle initial telephone contact and/or appointment letters. Also, this is the convening stage and is usually the stage when parties first learn of the mediation. Students will be taught the proper way to educate clients about mediation. Finally, once the parties agree to meet, the mediator should have a fee agreement and this part of the course addresses this issue.