What to expect: The Henning Mediation process

Traditional litigation can be time-consuming, costly, and adversarial. Thankfully, there’s another way forward: Mediation is a voluntary process designed to resolve disputes efficiently and amicably. Under guidance from our team of award-winning neutrals, mediation enables both parties to work together to find mutually beneficial and sustainable solutions.

During the Henning Mediation process, we invite participants to express their concerns, needs, and goals in a safe and structured environment. This approach not only helps resolve the immediate issues but also fosters better understanding between parties, which can be crucial in maintaining or even improving relationships after the dispute is resolved. Mediation also gives participants more control over the outcome. Instead of relying on a judge’s decision, both parties have a hand in crafting an agreement that works for all.

The result? More creative and tailored solutions, which are not always possible in a courtroom setting. Because for us, it’s not just about resolving a dispute quickly: It’s about finding a way forward that respects the long-term interests and values of everyone involved.

With the right mindset and preparation – along with an experienced neutral who understands both parties’ needs and goals – mediation can be a powerful tool for achieving a fair and lasting resolution.

Meditation at Henning – What’s our role?

The mediator, or neutral, is a fair and unbiased facilitator who guides discussions, helps to clarify issues, and assists in exploring potential solutions. Our mediators refrain from making decisions or showing bias, instead focusing on ensuring that both parties feel heard and understood. Each mediator has a background as a litigator and mediator, with specialized expertise in particular types of disputes. This specialization is a key aspect of Henning Mediation that distinguishes us from other mediation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services. By dedicating ourselves to becoming experts in various areas, we offer our clients exceptional insight and understanding that is hard to find elsewhere. Given that conflicts are often personal, Henning mediators utilize a range of strategies to manage emotions and keep the session focused on the matter at hand.

Our lips – and your files – are sealed

Mediation is a confidential process, and we take that very seriously at Henning Mediation. Everything discussed during our session remains private and cannot be used in court if the mediation does not result in an agreement. This allows both parties to speak openly and honestly without fear of repercussions.

Breaking down common mediation terms

Joint Session: Typically handled by counsel, both parties come together during a joint session to make an opening statement outlining perspectives. This step is optional and is used to set the stage for discussion.

Private Sessions (Caucuses): The mediator will meet separately with each party to discuss issues in greater detail, explore options, and facilitate open communication. At Henning, caucuses are held in one of our many private conference rooms. Each room is equipped with WIFI, a television with access to streaming apps, access to printers, and more.

Negotiation: A mediator will guide the negotiation process, helping both parties work toward mutually agreeable terms.

If an agreement is reached …

Congratulations! Typically, counsel and our mediator will draft a settlement memorandum, which serves as a written record of the binding Settlement Agreement. Formal settlement documents will be prepared and executed by all parties after the mediation. However, in some cases, the settlement agreement itself may be drafted during the mediation.

If no agreement is reached …

Parties may pursue arbitration or litigation, and all discussions and offers made during mediation will remain confidential. If participants were close to an agreement, our mediators would maintain contact after the session to help facilitate a settlement.

1. Exercise more control over outcomes. No need to rely on a judge: Both parties work together under the guidance of an experienced Henning mediator to find a mutually beneficial solution.
2. Save time and money. Mediation with us can be scheduled and completed more quickly than a court case (and with fewer costs, too). Plus, our easily accessible office, free parking, and Henning hospitality helps to make the process smoother for all involved.
3. Maintain relationships. A Henning Mediation session can help preserve professional or personal relationships by fostering cooperation and understanding – not resentment.

Meet the third-generation experts in dispute resolution

Mediation presents an opportunity to resolve disputes in a constructive and collaborative manner. It is not about winning or losing, but rather finding a solution that works for everyone involved. By engaging in a Henning Mediation session, you are taking a proactive step toward resolving your dispute in a way that can save time, reduce costs, and preserve relationships.

But mediation benefits aren’t contingent on session outcome: In our 25+ years of experience, we have found the mediation process provides parties with a clearer understanding of issues, helps them consider the perspectives of all parties, and reveals potential pathways to eventual resolution. Often, the groundwork laid in mediation can lead to a settlement shortly after the session or provide a strong foundation for future negotiations.

Delve into more than two decades of industry knowledge and expertise when you schedule a session with Henning Mediation, an industry leader in dispute resolution. Together, our team of award-winning mediators will help you work toward a successful, lasting resolution.