Editing Mediation (section)

====Mediator====
The mediator's primary role is to act as a neutral third party who facilitates discussions between the parties. In addition, a mediator serves in an evaluative role when they analyze, assess the issues, and engage in reality-testing.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eternalalliances.com/mediation/what-is-a-mediator|title=Sign in – Google Accounts|website=www.eternalalliances.com}}</ref> A mediator is neutral and they are not the agent of any party. In their role, mediators do not offer prescriptive advice (e.g., "You should settle this case," or, "Your next offer should be X."). Mediators also manage the interaction between the parties and encourage constructive communication through the use of specialized communication techniques.

Finally, the mediator should restrict pressure, aggression and intimidation, demonstrate how to communicate through employing good speaking and listening skills, and paying attention to non-verbal messages and other signals emanating from the context of the mediation and possibly contributing expertise and experience. The mediator should direct the parties to focus on issues and stay away from personal attacks.<ref name="Lisa Nelson">{{cite web|last=Nelson|first=Lisa|title=What is A Divorce Mediator|url=http://sfmediators.wordpress.com/2012/07/14/what-is-a-divorce-mediator/|work=Mediation Blog|date=14 July 2012|publisher=Lisa Nelson|access-date=29 July 2012}}</ref>