Evaluative Mediation
Evaluative mediation is a process modelled on settlement conferences held by judges. It is a form of mediation in which the mediator, usually a trained lawyer or another legal professional, actively offers their own opinions, assessments, and suggestions to the parties involved in the dispute. This can include offering an opinion on the strengths and weaknesses of each party's case, suggesting possible outcomes, and even making a specific settlement proposal. The goal of evaluative mediation is to help the parties understand their legal position and the potential outcome of the case if it goes to trial and to facilitate a settlement that is in the best interests of all parties involved.
