TIMING OF MEDIATION
The earlier, the better. For workplace disputes that have not reached the formal stage, early mediation is a valuable tool for resolution before the conflict worsens and the parties become entrenched in opinions that become non-negotiable.
Mediation is most effective early in the litigation process before discovery and deposition costs escalate. In fact, many disputes may be resolved before any formal discovery takes place.
Mediation is most successful when parties mediate as soon as enough information is available to conduct a case evaluation. As part of the mediation process, a good mediator will seamlessly facilitate the exchange of information necessary to make a case evaluation possible.