In the time of COVID, when social distancing is a norm, remote mediation is a good option. Firstly, there is no need to gather the parties at one place as the session is conducted via video conference. Secondly, it is secure and confidential.
In the following blog, we will look at how to prepare well for mediation in advance.
1. Schedule Date & Time- There is no need to book a conference room for mediation . All you need to do is call the participants and schedule the time. You need to confirm their availability, cross-check the time zones and coordinate. The hassle of gathering everyone at one place and booking a conference room to fit all is entirely eliminated as everyone can participate from home.
2. Technical Preparation- All the participants, including the mediator, should have a proper internet connection, webcam and microphone. The test of the equipment is a must before the mediation session starts.
Try to add participants a few minutes earlier before scheduled mediation, to verify the connection for all the parties and work out for those who are facing any technical glitches.
COURT REPORTING FIRMS have CERTIFIED COURT REPORTER who is expert in arranging all the technical aspects to conduct successful remote mediation, deposition and live transcriptions.
3. Every detail matters- During the mediation, a lot of discussion takes place. A mediator makes sure to ease the communication for all the participants on a video call. To run the session smoothly, everyone needs to be placed in a well-lit area so that everyone can see others properly. For instance, don’t sit with an open window or bright light in your background; it will make it difficult for others to see you. Apart from background clothes also matter during a session. Try to avoid printed clothes or any accessories as it may distract the participants and others. Also, ensure the area you have selected is quiet, so everyone can clearly hear you.
4. Keep Documents ready- Confirm that everyone has all the information needed beforehand, so when the session starts, everyone is well informed. Also, make sure you have a proposed agreement ready to share if needed. It makes the whole process smooth and effective.
5. Security and Confidentiality Assured- Make sure to use a secure platform. Meeting encryption and password protection maintain confidentiality. A neutral third party serving as a host is ideal for conducting mediation. It is always better to have a NATIONAL COURT REPORTER by your side to set up the meeting, send out links, monitor the connection during the proceeding and serve as a host.
The technician from the court reporting firm will send the unique link and ID to each participant for joining the meeting. Make sure you provide the entire list of participants to the court reporters. As participants will join the password-protected meeting with a code, the host will keep them in the waiting room. The host will also make a break-out room and assign parties to them. You can have your discussion with your clients and colleagues in that break-out room. Only the assigned participants can access a particular break-out room.
Let’s recount the checklist that is important before you head for a mediation session.
- Ensure to schedule date and time for a session as per availability of all the participants
- Provide the list of approved participants to the court reporting firm
- Keep documents ready
- Get equipment tested
- Set up in prime position for virtual meeting
The ATLANTA COURT REPORTERS in Elizabeth Gallo court reporting firm goes beyond simply preparing precise and clean transcripts. Our service combines preparing accurate and clear transcripts and its delivery, providing easy access to transcripts online, online scheduling, arranging video and video conferencing services.
For more information, drop us an email at [email protected] and get prompt answers.