Mediation Procedures

Mr. Hartsuyker strongly encourages you to arrange for the appropriate individuals to attend the mediation session, either in person or on Zoom with undivided attention, and to notify him who will be participating. The mediation is most likely to lead to a resolution of the matter when the actual decision makers and involved parties are present and engaged.  If the client or participant needs assistance with technological issues, it is counsels’ responsibility to ascertain the level of support needed prior to the mediation. Confidentiality is strictly protected.  Counsel is expected to have complied with Evidence Code Section 1129.

Mr. Hartsuyker encourages you to call or e-mail him to discuss, if necessary, whether a particular case is appropriate for mediation before scheduling a session. Once a case is scheduled, you can call or e-mail him to discuss any issues or concerns you may have about the mediation. Contacting the mediator is not an ex-parte communication. 

Mr. Hartsuyker strongly encourages you to send him a mediation brief at least three business days prior to the mediation. However, mediation briefs will be read if sent on shorter notice if time permits. Mr. Hartsuyker also requests that counsel submit the key medical records, reports by treating physicians and medical examiners, medical bills, photographs, diagrams, traffic collision or expert reports, employment records, contracts, executed real estate disclosure forms, pleadings, motions, excerpts of deposition testimony, or anything else counsel believes will assist the mediator in preparing for the session. Mr. Hartsuyker suggests you exchange your brief with all other legal counsel. You may also submit a supplemental confidential letter if you want to communicate information or writings solely to the mediator. Mediation briefs should only be submitted electronically to Mr. Hartsuyker's email address CHartsuyker@hartsuykermediationservices.com. If any of the documents cannot be read, Mr. Hartsuyker will contact you to facilitate alternative transmission.