The Self-Fulfilling Prophecy: How We Create Our Own Conflicts
Food for Thought…And for Negotiation
ADR professionals and experienced negotiators know that food can play an important role in building rapport, establishing connection, and fostering trust between adversaries. Food is ubiquitous at family gatherings, in religious ceremonies, and at diplomatic meetings for good reason. But how can food figure in our negotiations, arbitrations, and mediations?
As Barry Goldman observes in The Science of Settlement: “Food is good. . . . . [A}s a consequence, things associated...
More
Button It Down: Writing A Settlement Agreement When You’re Bushed
We’ve all been there: you have spent a long day negotiating or mediating a settlement to a contentious lawsuit or business conflict. You have agreed upon the essentials of the deal. You are tired, hungry, and perhaps a bit miffed at your adversary. But now you need to draft the details of a binding agreement to achieve peace and finality. What must you do to get this done right and...
More
The Five Keys to Choosing a Mediator for Your Case
You know that over 95% of cases settle short of trial, and litigation costs and delay are an issue with your client. What’s more, your judge, or the court rules, are pushing you into mediation. You believe a good mediator might buffer you from your client’s upset when you ask tough questions about the weaknesses of her case.
So, how do you choose the right mediator for your case?...
Mediation Prep: Five Essential Considerations
A surprising number of attorneys and clients begin commercial mediation without having fully prepared beforehand. Consider a few essential exercises before you draft your mediation summary and sit down at the mediation table:
-
Thoroughly evaluate your needs, interests, and objectives. What is your “best alternative to a mediated agreement” or BATMA? If you are already in litigation, this undoubtedly means calculating your likely result at trial. What are the strengths and...
Volunteer vs. Private Mediator: Can’t We Just Get Along?
