ROLE OF LAWYERS IN MEDIATION
Mediation as a mode of ADR is the process where parties are encouraged to communicate,
negotiate and settle their disputes with the assistance of a neutral facilitator i.e., mediator. Though
the role of the lawyer in mediation is functionally different from his role in litigation, the service
rendered by the lawyer to the party during the mediation process is aprofessional service. Since
lawyers have a proactive role to play in the mediation process, they should know the concept and
process of mediation and the positive role to be played by them while assisting the parties in mediation.
The role of the lawyer commences even before the case comes to the court and it continues throughout
the mediation process and even thereafter, whether the dispute has been settled or not. Awareness
programmes are necessary to make the lawyers aware of the concept andprocess of mediation, the
advantages and benefits of mediation and the role of lawyers in the mediationprocess.
