Dan Stein Family Mediation
=====================================================
Dan Stein, MS | 2225 Hayes Street, Eugene, OR
97405 | 541-344-7068
The Mediation Process
The formal mediation process goes through several stages. It is not necessary for the partipants to know or keep track of these stages--that's the mediator's job-- but for those who are interested, mediation usually follows this process:
First Stage: Introducing the Participants to Mediation Ground rules are explained. Individuals can express any concerns or questions they have. Some time is spent helping the participants get comfortable.
Second Stage: Building an Agenda A general picture of the problem is built with each side getting to explain their side of the story and their wants. As the facts emerge, we organize and prioritize an agenda, sorting out which items are mediatable.
Third Stage: Defining Issues & Uncovering Interests The various issues are sorting out and reframed in neutral, non-emotional terms. Underlying interests are explored so that both sides know clearly what is important to the other side and why. We start to move past held positions and start negotiating.
Fourth Stage: Generating & Selecting Options Options are brainstormed without criticism. Criteria for evaluating options are developed and finally, the various options are assessed. Preliminary agreements are reached.
Fifth Stage: Agreement Writing Agreements are reviewed, written up, and signed. There is discusssion as to how to address future needs. Loose ends are wrapped up and all parties are thanked for their hard work.
