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ARTICLE · 30 JULY 2025

Cut To The Chase: What Makes A Standout Evaluative Mediator?

Taft, Stettinius & Hollister LLP
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Evaluative and facilitative mediation are two distinct styles of mediation that share a common objective —the resolution of the dispute being mediated.

United StatesLitigation, Mediation & Arbitration
David H. Wallace
David H. Wallace
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Evaluative and facilitative mediation are two distinct styles of mediation that share a common objective —the resolution of the dispute being mediated. Unlike a facilitative mediator, an evaluative mediator often actively assesses the legal merits of each party's case and frequently offers opinions or suggestions to help facilitate a settlement. In this mediation style, the mediator takes a more directive role, providing substantive feedback and, if necessary, offering assessments or opinions regarding the relative merits of the parties' claims and the likely outcomes at trial. If you believe an evaluative mediator is appropriate for your case, there are certain qualifications and characteristics to look for, a few of which are outlined below:

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