Effective participation in mediation requires a different mindset from purely adversarial case preparation. This course helps solicitors prepare clients, cases and negotiation strategy for mediation while preserving appropriate legal and commercial analysis. It examines how mediation dynamics, confidential negotiation and party interests can influence the prospects of reaching a workable settlement.

Participants consider case preparation, BATNA and risk analysis, opening approaches, client expectations, mediator interaction and the use of private sessions. The course also examines common barriers to settlement and how negotiation strategy can evolve as information and priorities change during the mediation process. It is designed to strengthen mediation readiness rather than teach participants to act as mediators.