You meet with Mr. Hughes to discuss the dispute, the parties involved, and what resolution looks like. This conversation is confidential and helps Mr. Hughes understand the full context.

Before the scheduled session, each party provides an Information Sheet and Request for Mediation and the information reasonably needed for Mr. Hughes to understand the dispute. Everyone necessary to the settlement decision should attend, and party representatives must have authority to settle.

Mr. Hughes may bring the parties together to hear each side’s perspective. This isn’t a courtroom — it’s a structured conversation designed to build understanding.

Mr. Hughes meets individually with each party to explore interests, identify common ground, and discuss realistic options. These conversations remain confidential.

Mr. Hughes facilitates negotiations and helps the parties work toward a mutually acceptable resolution. If the parties reach an agreement, he may assist with documenting the settlement terms.

When an agreement is reached, the parties resolve the dispute on terms they accept. Mediation may also help preserve an ongoing business relationship when that is important to the parties.

If the dispute does not settle during the scheduled session, Mr. Hughes may continue working with the parties afterward. He has reported that many matters have settled in the weeks following the initial mediation.