The Opening Statement
Put this in your own voice
Skip lines
Use we and not I for most statements—you’re a mediation team!
Be prepared to go back and add or subtract stuff once I review it
Have a finalized copy ready the day we start mediations _____________________
1. Welcome.
Welcome to ___________________________________
2. Introduction.
I am ______________________________ (first name only), a volunteer mediator, and this
is______________________________________________________________________________________.
You must be ____________ and ________________. How would you like to be addressed?
3. Validation.
It takes a lot of character to come participate in a mediation process. Thanks for
giving it a try.
4. Roles of mediators
Our role as mediators is to facilitate the process so you can come to resolution. We
are responsible for maintaining safety and encouraging communication. We are
responsible for the process but not solutions; we will guide you but we are not a
judge or jury. We don’t give advice. We don’t take sides. We strive for neutrality. As
participants, we hope that you will communicate your needs and concerns openly.
5. The mediation process
•First we ask that you speak only to us. We will try to understand your concerns.
•Then if you both feel it’s appropriate, you will speak to one another.
•When you have heard each other’s concerns, we may want to try problem-solving.
If we work out an agreement it can be written or oral. We will help with the wording
and the logistics.
6. Ground Rules
To make this a smooth process, we have some ground rules we need agreement on.
1. Please speak only to the mediators for the first part of the mediation. Can you
agree?
2. Please don’t interrupt anyone. There will be plenty of time for everyone to be
heard. Please jot down anything you want to remember. Can you agree?
3. Treat everyone with respect. Can you agree?
4. As mediators, our neutrality is essential to our functioning. If we say or do
anything that does not seem neutral to you, we need you to let us know so we can
address the concern. Can you agree?
7. Confidentiality
What is said in this mediation stays in this room. That way you can share knowing
that nothing said can be used against you in court. You may not talk to anyone, not
even a spouse, about what we discuss in here unless both parties agree that they can
discuss aspects of the session as part of their final agreement.
8. Special meetings
Sometimes the mediators feel it’s necessary to take breaks to confer with each other
or to discuss matters separately with the parties. This is normal and nothing
negative; we are letting you know now in case it becomes necessary today.
9. The process of mediation can be challenging and rewarding. Are you ready to give
it a try?
10. Normally the person who first contacted the office to ask for a mediation goes
first. Does that sound all right with you both?