The mediation commences when one or both parties approach the mediator. The next step is an intake consultation (by phone) in which the procedure and conditions of the mediation can be discussed with the mediator.
If both parties decide mediation might be a suitable method to resolve their conflict, the first mediation session can be planned. During this session the issues to be resolved are listed. Following on the initial session, an acceptable and feasible solution for all participants will be explored in one or more follow-up meetings. The average time involved with a mediation is variable and depends on the nature of the problems at hand: on average two to three sessions of approximately three hours are involved.
For more information see Pel 2008 , Referral to Mediation, Chapter 5 ‘Mediation’