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University of Wyoming

The Mediation Process

Mediation is a voluntary and private process in which a neutral third party (the mediator) facilitates the discussion of issues between the disputants, the development of alternate solutions, and the non-directed negotiation of a mutually satisfying outcome to the dispute.  The mediation process is easy to access and to use.

There are three parts to the mediation process:

In-Take

During In-Take, a request is made for the mediation process to begin. A member of the PMC reviews the request to insure that the dispute is suitable for mediation, and works to insure that all parties are voluntary participants in the mediation process. The in-take coordinator reviews the process with all disputants and insures a time and a place for the mediation session to take place and notifies all parties involved.

The Mediation Session

During The Mediation Session, the disputants are guided through a step-by-step process by the mediator(s) which allows them to voice their perspectives on the dispute, to outline important issues, and to creatively explore options for resolving the dispute. Mediators do not serve as judges, counselors, or attorneys, and do not make decisions for the disputants. Rather, it is our belief that people will develop better solutions on their own, with the assistance of a neutral third party employing highly effective communication strategies.

Agreement and Follow-up

During Agreement and Follow-up, the mediators first assist the disputants to develop a full or partial agreement based on any progress made in the mediation session. The PMC staff later follows up with the disputants to insure that the agreement has worked to the satisfaction of all people involved. Any further disputes that arise are welcome to return to the mediation process, or to seek other assistance as necessary.

Keys to Mediation

  1. Mediation is easy to request and to schedule

  2. Mediation is voluntary

  3. Mediation is private

  4. Mediated agreements are generally more effective and satisfying than decisions imposed by other parties