I believe in the right of the parties to control the mediation process as well as the ultimate result. Control of the process includes the right of the parties to select a mediator who meets their needs, whether that need is for facilitation of communication, for reality testing, for evaluation of a case's merits, or any combination of these. Parties should fully understand the consequences of their agreements, which means they must be informed as to the facts and the legal issues. I explore these needs with the parties and counsel, and reach agreement as to my role, before beginning the mediation process.