It doesn’t matter if it is the beginning of the case or on the doorstep of trial, engaging the other side in settlement negotiations is always beneficial. Even if settlement is unlikely, it allows each side to gain perspective on the other’s position. Mediation with A&M will also allow a neutral to provide perspective to each side. Leading up to the mediation, A&M will provide friendly reminders regarding the mediation in order to set the table for meaningful settlement negotiations. In those pre-mediation conversations, A&M will determine the crucial points for each side to focus negotiations and provide a better opportunity for resolution.
At mediation, while the goal is to resolve every issue and reach a comprehensive settlement, dialogue is progress. If one issue is resolved at mediation, then that is progress, and the parties are that much closer to settlement. Sometimes, it just takes resolving one point to create a domino effect. Let A&M get the ball rolling and narrow the issues until there are none left. If settlement does not occur that day, we will continue to gently follow up until a resolution is reached or it becomes clear that Trial is the only way for parties to resolve their differences. Up until that point, A&M will exhaust every avenue and each opportunity for settlement.
