With the uncertainty of what a jury will do in a particular case and the significant costs associated with trying a case to verdict, alternative dispute resolution proceedings in the form of mediations and arbitrations have been a rising trend across the commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The following practice tips for nonbinding mediations may assist litigants in bringing their cases to a desired resolution.

Be Fully Prepared

All too often, parties may arrive at a nonbinding mediation without having provided the opposing party with all of the information necessary to allow for a successful mediation.

On the plaintiff's side, there are times where a plaintiff has not yet finalized the information pertinent to the economic damages claims, such as wage loss claims or medical expenses claims. At times, the parties are still waiting for the completion of the lengthy process associated with securing health care, Medicaid or Medicare liens.