Prior to attending a joint session, a mediator needs to ensure that a matter is suited to mediation. The mediator must be satisfied that each party can negotiate freely before agreeing to provide mediation services.

After the initial intake, a joint session is held which can last up to 3 hours. After that a further session or sessions may follow.

If an agreement can be reached (or even a partial agreement negotiated) then the mediator will write up the agreement which can then be made binding in Court.

Importantly, subject to some exceptions, everything that is said in mediation must remain confidential and if no agreement is reached, nothing that is said by the parties in mediation can ever be relied upon in court. This usually encourages people to speak freely without having to worry that something they say or a offer they make might be used against them later by the other party.