Are forceful mediators effective?

Rather than seeking out a robust mediator it’s probably of greater benefit to find a mediator with good people skills. We frequently hear lawyers voice the need for a strong (or forceful) mediator for their dispute. What kind of qualities do lawyers expect in a “strong mediator”? Is a strong mediator expected to make the parties tremble? Or is it someone who is able to “bang heads together” or who knows the law or can evaluate who has the best case and tell the parties so. Or is it a tough negotiator or someone who has little regard for the classical models of mediation but can accomplish a settlement – or someone who is just simply a good mediator? Read more … by Jonathan Kaplan – 01 Oct 2018 (Law Institute...