INKOVEMA Podcast „Well through time“

#109 – Co-mediation

When mediators (can) experience each other at work

In conversation with Dr Isabell Lütkehaus.

Well through time. The podcast about mediation, conflict coaching and organisational consulting.

Contents:

Co-mediation requires at least two mediators to work together. If - in large group formats - more than two mediators work together, this can also be referred to as team mediation, although this term is misleading because a team can also be mediated (by one or more mediators).

In practice, it is by no means necessary for several mediators to be present at all times in order to speak of co-mediation. Rather, general co-mediations can be distinguished from sequential and temporary co-mediations.

Mediators can be selected on the basis of various criteria: Basic professions, required mediation skills, gender affiliation, age structures, etc.

Advantages and disadvantages of co-mediation

Some possible Advantages of co-mediation are:

• It can lead to a faster and more successful conclusion of the mediation, as the mediators can combine their skills and experience and thus approach a wider range of possible solutions.
• Greater commitment and acceptance of the agreed solutions can be achieved as the mediators question the parties independently of each other and monitor compliance with the mediation process.
• It can help the parties feel better understood and that their concerns and needs are being taken seriously.

Possible Disadvantages of co-mediation are:

• It can be more expensive than traditional mediation, as two mediators have to be paid instead of one.
• It can be more difficult to find a common approach to mediation as mediators may have different experiences and perspectives.
• It can be confusing for the parties as they have to communicate with several mediators and cannot be sure who has which role in the mediation.
• In practical terms, it is also more difficult to find joint appointments.

Presence of several mediators in co-mediations

• General co-mediationGeneral co-mediation is when two or more mediators act simultaneously and in the presence of each other. This requires a high degree of coordination between the mediators.
• Sequential co-mediationSometimes a model is also implemented in which different mediators carry out the individual sequences, e.g. in the context of separation mediation, the couple level is separated from the parental matter and from the inheritance law situation, which is why different mediators act in succession.
• Temporary co-mediationIn temporary co-mediation, a second mediator is only involved for a limited period of time. Due to the requirements of the Legal Services Act for mediators who are not authorised to provide legal advice, this model is particularly suitable for the drafting of a final agreement.