Mediations

Mediations very often settle cases. They are typically informal, good at preserving a relationship between the parties, and allow both sides to "have their day in court" without some of the downside that can bring, in terms of time, money, and frustration. King County Superior Court in Washington mandates that parties in every case try some form of dispute resolution before trial. Mediation, deservedly, is one of the most popular alternatives. (Arbitration is also popular, for different types of cases.) We believe that one of the keys to a good mediation, besides choosing an experienced mediator, is to evaluate your case impartially before you come, and be prepared to be flexible. Please review our "Tips for Successful Mediations." We believe those suggestions will help you get the most out of your mediation, and make it the success that you want it to be. For receipt at least five business days before the mediation hearing, please send us the following materials: A brief statement of the facts; An outline of the legal issues involved and your position on these issues; An itemization of all special damages claimed; A short summary of the medical/financial records and/or a few pages of the actual medical/financial records which you consider especially relevant (Please bring the complete records to the mediation conference); Any other material important to your case and about which you think we should be aware. Typically, mediators request that the plaintiff (and, if an insurer is involved, the insurance company representative) be present throughout the mediation proceedings. Please check with us immediately if any of this presents a difficulty. If you have any questions about these materials, please call Steve Branom directly at (206) 624-2200. Thank you. For further information, please also feel free to email: mediator@hackettbeecher.com