Frequently Asked Questions Do I need an attorney to attend mediation? Attorneys may attend their clients’ mediations, and frequently do. However, people may attend mediation and settle...How do I hire a mediator? The parties with the dispute may contact a mediator directly, or represented parties may contact a...What if the mediation does not result in an agreement? Not all mediations result in a settlement agreement. The mediator will file a report with the...How long does mediation take? Mediations can last a few hours, an entire day or over several days. Sometimes mediations begin...Can I be forced to mediate an agreement? A Court may order parties to attend mediation, but any settlement agreement reached at mediation has...Is mediation confidential? Rule 31 mediation is confidential, which is one of the great advantages of it over litigation....Are there different styles of mediation? Depending on the type of dispute and the wishes of the parties, mediations may be conducted...What kind of training does a Rule 31 Mediator have? A Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31 Listed General Civil Mediator must have either a baccalaureate or...What is a mediator? A mediator is a neutral, impartial person who helps people resolve a dispute. A mediator does...What is mediation? Mediation is a voluntary, informal dispute resolution process where parties negotiate with the help of a...