Mediation Case Information Form
What the Mediation Case Information Form Is
Why a Completed Form Matters
A completed Mediation Case Information Form gives mediators the factual and logistical context required to manage time, assess complexity, and anticipate evidentiary or confidentiality issues. Accurate submissions improve scheduling, reduce repeated communications, and help ensure parties arrive prepared for productive negotiation.
Who Typically Prepares and Uses This Form
The form is used by parties, attorneys, mediators, court staff, and program administrators to capture and exchange case-level information prior to mediation.
- Plaintiffs / Claimants: Provide contact details, relief sought, and settlement authority.
- Defendants / Respondents: Supply corporate contacts, insurer information, and decision-maker availability.
- Mediators / Court Staff: Use the form to schedule sessions, identify conflicts, and plan procedural steps.
Completing the form promptly and accurately supports scheduling, confidentiality handling, and an effective mediation process for all participants.
Step-by-Step: Completing the Form Before Mediation
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01Collect Records: Gather pleadings, policies, and settlement history.
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02Populate Form: Enter case number, parties, and concise dispute statement.
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03Confirm Authority: Identify whether decision-makers will attend or delegate authority.
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04Exchange Documents: Send completed forms and key exhibits to mediator and opposing counsel.
Configuring an Online Mediation Workflow
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Upload Method | PDF or DOCX accepted; convert Word to PDF for final records. |
| Signer Roles | Assign party, counsel, and mediator signing order where required. |
| Authentication | Use email or SMS codes; stronger MFA for sensitive cases. |
| Retention | Store executed forms with audit trail for the retention period. |
Technical Needs for Secure eSubmission
Use a platform that supports authenticated signing, audit trails, and common integrations to reduce friction.
- Authentication: Email link, SMS code, or stronger multifactor options.
- Audit Trail: IP, timestamp, and action log retained with the document.
- Integrations: Connectors for Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, or case management systems.
Verify the vendor supports data encryption in transit and at rest and can provide a BAA for HIPAA-covered workflows where required.
Typical Pre-Mediation Exchange Process
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Upload: Party or counsel uploads the completed form and exhibits.
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Review: Mediator and opposing counsel review submitted materials.
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Clarify: Mediator requests any missing details or clarifications.
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Confirm: Mediator issues final agenda and logistics to participants.
Common Deadlines and Scheduling Expectations
Form Submission Deadline:
Often 7–14 days before the mediation date to allow review.
Exchange of Exhibits:
Typically due with the form or within the same pre-mediation window.
Confidential Briefs:
Submit any confidential mediator-only briefs per program rules.
Mediator Availability Notice:
Provide windows of availability at least 14 days in advance.
Late Submission Policy:
Late forms may be accepted with less prep time or rescheduled.
Key Milestones from Filing to Session
File Form
Complete and submit the Mediation Case Information Form.
Exchange Documents
Share exhibits and position summaries with all parties.
Mediator Review
Mediator reads materials and requests missing items.
Session Confirmation
Mediator confirms time, location, or virtual link with participants.
Common Mistakes That Cause Delays
- Entering inconsistent party names that do not match court filings or insurance policies.
- Failing to list the decision-maker or indicating settlement authority is available.
- Uploading unreadable exhibits or failing to label documents by exhibit number.
- Missing deadlines for submission, resulting in limited mediator preparation time.
Risks of Incomplete or Incorrect Forms
eSignature Pricing and Feature Snapshot for Mediation Workflows
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Verify | Verify | Verify | Verify |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Verify | Verify | Verify | Verify |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Verify | Verify | Verify |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Mediation Case Information Form
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What if I miss the submission deadline?
If you miss the stated deadline, contact the mediator or program administrator immediately. Late submissions may still be accepted but could limit mediator review and affect scheduling or require rescheduling.
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Is the form enforceable in court?
The form documents pre-mediation facts and contacts; it does not transform settlement terms into enforceable judgments unless the parties reduce an agreement to a signed settlement agreement or court order after mediation.
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Can the form be submitted electronically?
Yes. Electronic submission is common. Ensure the platform provides an auditable trail, secure transmission, and appropriate authentication for sensitive or regulated information.
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Do I need a notarized signature on the form?
Most programs do not require notarization for the Mediation Case Information Form itself, but specific exhibits or settlement documents may require notarization; check program rules or state requirements.
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How do I indicate confidential mediator-only materials?
Label materials clearly as 'Mediator Only' or use a confidential brief field if provided. Confirm with the mediator how such materials will be handled and whether the program permits mediator-only submissions.
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Who confirms settlement authority will be present?
The submitting party or counsel should state settlement authority status on the form and identify a named decision-maker. If authority is absent, describe the approval process and expected timeline.