The Power of Collaboration: Rethinking Joint Sessions in Mediation

This webinar's speakers, Stacy L. La Scala, Esq. and Stephen H. Sulmeyer, J.D., Ph.D., will explore the many advantages of joint working sessions in mediation of all kinds, and discuss how to conduct joint sessions to maximize harmony and productivity. Examples will be shared illustrating how the “magic moments” of mediation can only happen in joint sessions. By embracing rather than fearing the parties’ emotions, the parties can get to the heart of what their conflict is all about. By hearing directly from their opposite number what is most important to them, the parties can creatively problem-solve together. They will debunk the many myths used fuel resistance to joint sessions, including false ideas about destructive “venting” and fears that emotions will spiral out of control and destroy any hope of settlement. They will discuss various techniques for harnessing the power of joint sessions, including joint pre-mediation calls to shift mindsets, establish ground rules and address concerns. Lastly, they will explore when separate caucuses should be used as an adjunct to the joint session format.