The mediation process, step by step

You write to us or call us and describe your situation briefly. You find out whether mediation suits your case and what would happen next.

The first conversation is for orientation and commits you to nothing. We note who the parties are, what the dispute is about and whether the case is already before a court. We also check whether anything might affect the mediator's neutrality. If mediation is not the right route for you, we say so openly.

At the informative session (ședință de informare) we explain what mediation is, how it is conducted and what rights the parties have. The substance of the dispute is not discussed yet.

The informative session is the meeting at which the mediator sets out the procedure, its principles and the effects of an agreement. For certain categories of dispute, the law requires attendance at such a session before the case can go further. Attending the session is one thing, accepting mediation is another: no one can be compelled to sign an agreement.

If both parties wish to continue, we sign the mediation contract (contract de mediere). It fixes the subject of the discussion, the rules of the sessions, confidentiality and the fee.

The mediation contract is concluded in writing, between the parties and the mediator. It establishes what exactly is being mediated, how the sessions are run, how the costs are borne and the duty of confidentiality that binds everyone taking part. From this moment the procedure has formally started, but it stays voluntary: either party may withdraw.

Together you clarify the facts, the interests of each party and the options open to you. The mediator guides the discussion but does not decide in your place.

Sessions may be held jointly or separately, at the request of either party. The mediator does not judge, does not give legal advice and does not impose a solution; the role is to keep the discussion useful and balanced. The number of sessions depends on how complex the dispute is and on how ready the parties are to talk about solutions.

The understandings you have reached are written down in clear terms that are easy to follow, and signed by the parties.

The mediation agreement (acord de mediere) contains only what the parties themselves have agreed: who does what, by when and on what terms. It is concluded in writing and signed by the parties. If the mediation closes without an agreement, the dispute stays where it was, and what was said in the sessions remains confidential.