During mediation, the mediator may speak to both parties jointly or in private. Attempts are made to have a joint meeting as opposed to a private caucus. You will have a chance to express your views in a civil manner to the other party. The mediator will help you discuss your disagreement with the other party and will assist you in reaching a settlement that is acceptable to both of you. When the parties are unwilling or unable to talk to one another directly, the mediator will separate the parties and act as a liaison between the two parties in order to assist their communications. To aid in the mediation, the mediator may ask questions to gain an understanding of the issues, help the parties understand the other person’s point of view, discuss weaknesses in the arguments of the parties, or make suggestions to solve the conflict. The mediator, however, will not make the decisions. It is always your decision to determine what is an acceptable settlement. At any time during mediation process you may consult with legal counsel or have your legal counsel come to mediation with you.