Establishing secure connection…Loading editor…Preparing document…

Mediation Representation Agreement

This template is fully customizable. Edit the text, fill out the fields, and send it for signature. Give it a try!

MEDIATION REPRESENTATION AGREEMENT

This Mediation Representation Agreement (the Agreement) is entered into as of the day of , , by and between Client Name: , located at Client Address: (Client), and Representative Name / Firm: , located at Representative Address: (Representative).

RECITALS

WHEREAS, a dispute exists between Client and one or more other parties that the Client seeks to resolve through mediation; and

WHEREAS, Client desires to retain Representative to provide legal and advisory services in connection with the mediation and related settlement negotiations, and Representative is willing to provide such services subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement; and

WHEREAS, the parties intend that the representation provided pursuant to this Agreement be limited in scope as set forth herein.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises set forth below, the parties agree as follows:

1. SCOPE OF ENGAGEMENT

Representative will represent Client solely for the purpose of advising and representing Client in mediation proceedings concerning the dispute identified as:

Services include pre-mediation preparation, attendance at the mediation session(s), direct negotiation with other parties or counsel, and drafting or reviewing any proposed settlement agreement arising from mediation. This Agreement does not encompass litigation, arbitration, appeals, or representation in any court proceeding unless expressly agreed in writing.

2. REPRESENTATIVE'S DUTIES

Representative shall exercise professional judgment, use reasonable skill and diligence, keep Client reasonably informed of significant developments, and promptly comply with Client's reasonable requests for information. Representative will explain mediation procedures and settlement options and will advise Client regarding the legal consequences of proposed terms.

3. CLIENT'S DUTIES

Client shall cooperate with Representative, provide complete and truthful information and documents necessary for effective representation, attend scheduled mediation sessions, and consider Representative's advice in good faith. Client understands that Representative cannot guarantee any particular result.

4. FEES, RETAINER, AND EXPENSES

Client agrees to compensate Representative as follows. Select one fee arrangement and provide the applicable amounts:

Hourly: Rate $ per hour for time spent by Representative and staff, billed in increments of 0.1 hour.

Flat Fee: $ payable as follows:

Client shall also be responsible for costs and expenses reasonably incurred in connection with the mediation, including but not limited to mediator fees, filing fees, administrative charges, travel expenses, expert fees, copying, and courier charges. Estimated mediation administrative costs: $ .

A retainer in the amount of $ is required before Representative's substantial performance. The retainer will be held in Representative's trust account and applied to fees and costs; any unearned portion will be refunded following final accounting.

5. MEDIATION FEES AND THIRD-PARTY COSTS

The parties acknowledge that mediator fees and administrative costs are separate from Representative's fees. Client is responsible for timely payment of Client's share of the mediator's fees as required by the mediator or mediation administrator. Representative may advance such third-party costs on Client's behalf but shall be reimbursed by Client upon demand.

6. CONFIDENTIALITY AND MEDIATION PRIVILEGE

The parties acknowledge that communications made during mediation may be privileged or confidential under applicable law. Representative will not disclose confidential mediation communications except as authorized by Client, required by law, or necessary to defend Representative in a dispute concerning fees or the representation. Settlement offers made during mediation shall not be admissible to prove liability in subsequent proceedings except as required to enforce a signed settlement agreement.

7. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

Representative has made reasonable inquiries and does not currently know of a conflict that would materially limit the representation. If a conflict arises, Representative will promptly disclose it to Client. Client may consent in writing to any proposed waiver of a conflict. Representative reserves the right to withdraw if a non-waivable conflict is discovered.

8. TERMINATION; EFFECT OF TERMINATION

Either party may terminate this Agreement at any time upon written notice to the other. Upon termination, Client shall remain liable for all fees and costs incurred through the date of termination and for any obligations set forth in any settlement or other agreement reached prior to termination. Representative will provide a final accounting, return Client documents as required by law, and retain copies as permitted.

9. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

Except for willful misconduct or gross negligence, Representative's liability to Client for any claim arising out of this Agreement or the representation shall be limited to the total fees paid by Client to Representative under this Agreement. In no event shall Representative be liable for consequential, special, punitive, or incidental damages.

10. NOTICES

Notices shall be in writing and shall be deemed given when delivered personally, sent by nationally recognized overnight courier, or mailed by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the addresses set forth above or to such other address as either party may specify in writing.

11. AMENDMENTS AND WAIVER

This Agreement may be amended only by a written document signed by both parties. No failure or delay by either party in exercising any right under this Agreement shall operate as a waiver of that right, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right preclude further exercise of that or any other right.

12. GOVERNING LAW; ENTIRE AGREEMENT; SEVERABILITY; COUNTERPARTS

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the state identified below without regard to conflict of law principles. The parties agree that the law of that state will govern substantive and procedural matters arising from this Agreement.

Governing State:

This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, whether written or oral. If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, and all of which together shall constitute one instrument.

13. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Client acknowledges receipt of a copy of this Agreement, has had an opportunity to ask questions, and understands the terms, including the fee arrangement and the limitations set forth herein. Client authorizes Representative to communicate with Client by electronic means at the contact information provided.

Client Electronic Contact:

Client confirms: Consent to electronic communications and electronic signatures.

Client:

By:

Date:

Representative:

By:

Date:

Enter text✕

What the Mediation Representation Agreement Is and When It Applies

A Mediation Representation Agreement is a written contract between a client and an attorney (or law firm) that defines the scope of representation specifically for mediation and settlement negotiations. It documents who the lawyer represents, the scope of mediation services, fee and expense arrangements, confidentiality of mediation communications, authority to accept or recommend settlement, and procedures for withdrawal or substitution of counsel. The agreement clarifies expectations for pre-mediation preparation, document exchange, and post-mediation formalities such as execution of settlement agreements or dismissal paperwork, and it may be executed electronically when parties consent under federal and state e-signature law.

Why a Clear Mediation Representation Agreement Matters

A focused agreement reduces ambiguity about representation, fees, confidentiality, and settlement authority, lowering the risk of post-mediation disputes and malpractice claims while improving efficiency during negotiation and document exchange.

Why a Clear Mediation Representation Agreement Matters

Who Commonly Uses This Agreement and How It Helps Each Party

This agreement is used when an attorney-client relationship is limited to mediation or when mediation requires distinct terms separate from general engagement letters.

  • Plaintiff or claimant counsel — Establishes duties, settlement authority, and cost allocation during mediation to avoid later fee disputes.
  • Defense counsel — Limits mediation-specific obligations and confirms who may authorize settlement for corporate or insured clients.
  • Individual clients and parties — Clarifies cost-sharing, confidentiality, and whether counsel may sign settlement documents on the client’s behalf.

By documenting scope and authority in writing, it protects client interests and sets operable expectations for counsel, the mediator, and opposing parties.

Primary Signatories and Their Roles

Attorney / Law Firm

An attorney signs to accept representation for mediation, specifying the scope of services, billing terms, settlement authority limits, and conditions for withdrawal. The attorney’s signature binds the firm and triggers professional obligations under state ethics rules and the engagement terms.

Client / Represented Party

The client signs to confirm acceptance of the mediation-limited engagement, fee and expense responsibilities, confidentiality consent, and any grant of limited settlement authority or instruction for post-mediation execution of documents.

Key Parts to Include in a Professional Mediation Representation Agreement

A clear structure reduces later interpretation disputes and makes the agreement useful during mediator interactions and settlement drafting.

Parties

Identify all parties and the law firm or attorney representing the client, including full legal names and contact details to ensure proper service and identity verification.

Scope

Define the limited scope of representation (mediation only, settlement drafting, limited post-mediation tasks) and note any excluded services requiring separate engagement.

Authority

State whether counsel has authority to accept or sign settlements on the client’s behalf, any dollar limits, and required client approvals for particular outcomes.

Fees and Costs

Specify billing rates or flat mediation fees, how mediator or venue costs are allocated, retainer handling, and billing frequency or settlement contingency terms if applicable.

Confidentiality

Include mediation privilege acknowledgements, treatment of mediator communications, and exceptions for disclosure (court orders, ethical duties).

Termination

Explain withdrawal procedures, obligations upon termination (final bills, return of files), and effect on ongoing settlement negotiations.

Step-by-Step: How to Complete and Execute the Agreement

Follow these steps to prepare a usable mediation representation agreement and capture execution evidence for enforceability.

  • 01
    Draft: Populate parties, scope, fees, and authority sections before sharing with the client.
  • 02
    Review: Have both attorney and client review terms and confirm settlement authority and fee allocation.
  • 03
    Execute: Sign with dated signatures; collect consent to electronic records if e-signing under ESIGN/UETA.
  • 04
    Distribute: Provide signed copies to parties, mediator, and retain a locked record in the client file.

How Execution and Distribution Typically Flow

A consistent signing and routing workflow reduces mistakes and preserves an audit trail for enforceability and compliance.

  • Prepare Document: Attorney creates the agreement and confirms required fields are completed.
  • Signature Collection: Client and attorney sign (in person, remotely, or via e-signature) and date the document.
  • Record Keeping: Store the executed agreement with the client file and any mediation exhibits.
  • Share with Mediator: Provide the mediator a copy if the agreement grants mediator-specific privileges or duties.

Recommended Online Workflow Settings for Electronic Completion

Configure the e-workflow to capture signer identity, consent, and an audit trail compatible with legal requirements.

Field Configuration
Signature Field Enable required; timestamp and signer IP captured
Date Field Auto-fill on signature; use MM/DD/YYYY format
Signer Authentication Use email + SMS code for added assurance
Audit Trail Retain full event log and PDF certificate

Technical Requirements for Secure Electronic Signing and Storage

Ensure the provider supports ESIGN/UETA compliance, optional HIPAA BAA where required, RON or in-person notarization workflows if your jurisdiction or party requires notarized acknowledgements.

  • Formats Supported: PDF, DOCX
  • Integrations: Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, NetSuite
  • Security Controls: TLS in transit; AES-256 at rest

Typical Timelines and Deadlines to Track

Track dates tied to mediation logistics, billing, and any statutory deadlines that could be affected by settlement timing.

Effective Date:

Date the agreement is signed; obligations begin on this date.

Retainer Due:

If a retainer applies, state when payment is due relative to mediation.

Pre-Mediation Exchange:

Set a deadline for exchange of exhibits and position statements.

Mediation Session:

Date(s) of the mediation event and expected end date.

Settlement Execution:

Specify timeframe to sign settlement documents after an agreement is reached.

Key Milestones from Engagement to Post-Mediation Wrap-Up

A milestone timeline helps parties prepare documents, confirm authority, and meet settlement execution deadlines.

01

Engagement Signed

Agreement executed and retainer (if any) received; representation begins.

02

Exchange Materials

Parties exchange exhibits, position statements, and evidence as agreed.

03

Mediation Session

Facilitated negotiation occurs; mediator may propose settlement options.

04

Settlement Formalization

Draft and sign settlement agreement or record failure to settle; file dismissal papers if required.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing the Agreement

  • Using vague language for settlement authority that leads to later disputes over whether counsel could accept terms.
  • Failing to collect explicit consent for electronic records under ESIGN when signing online in consumer-facing matters.
  • Neglecting to specify allocation of mediator or filing costs, causing unexpected client disputes about expense responsibility.
  • Omitting confidentiality or privilege provisions tailored to mediation, which can expose sensitive negotiation positions.

Risks and Consequences of an Incomplete or Incorrect Agreement

Unenforceable Terms: Poorly drafted authority clauses can render settlement acceptances void.
Fee Disputes: Vague billing terms increase malpractice or fee-splitting claims.
Confidentiality Breach: Absent privilege language may allow opposing use of mediation communications.
Notarization Errors: Missing notarization when required can delay or nullify recorded documents.
Retention Failures: Improper recordkeeping risks noncompliance with statutory retention rules.
Authentication Gaps: Insufficient signer verification undermines electronic signature validity.

Security, Compliance, and Recordkeeping Essentials

Encryption: TLS 1.2/1.3 in transit; AES-256 at rest
Audit Trail: Capture timestamps, IP, and signer events
HIPAA Support: BAA available where protected health information applies
Regulatory Compliance: ESIGN and UETA support for electronic record validity
Access Controls: Role-based permissions and SSO options
Long-Term Storage: Tamper-evident PDFs with stored audit certificates

Comparison: Typical eSignature Vendors for Executing This Agreement

Basic pricing and feature availability across common eSignature providers; signNow appears first per vendor listing conventions.

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 Varies Varies Varies Varies
Bulk Send Yes Yes Yes Yes No
Audit Trail Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HIPAA Compliant Yes Yes Yes No No

Real-World Example Scenarios

Practical examples illustrate how the agreement functions across typical mediation settings.

Real Estate Settlement

A broker and homeowner execute a mediation representation agreement to limit counsel scope to buyer-seller negotiations.

  • The attorney is authorized to sign closing releases under $50,000.
  • The written limit prevented post-settlement fee disputes and expedited escrow instructions without additional retainer.

Employment Dispute

An employee retains counsel specifically for mediation of termination claims, with confidentiality and limited discovery negotiation.

  • Counsel agrees not to pursue litigation unless settlement fails.
  • Clear scope and fee terms avoided later conflict about continued representation when settlement terms required minor follow-up.

Practical Tips for Efficient and Accurate Completion

Adopt consistent drafting and signing practices to reduce downstream disputes and administrative work.

Use Clear Numeric Limits
Express settlement authority in exact dollar amounts or require prior client consent for ambiguous terms to avoid unauthorized acceptances.
Capture Electronic Consent
If executing electronically, record the client’s consent to receive records electronically in compliance with ESIGN and applicable state law.
Attach Exhibits
Include mediation exhibits, billing schedules, and retainer receipts as numbered exhibits to avoid later omissions.
Preserve the Audit Trail
Retain signed PDFs with audit certificates and access logs to demonstrate execution events if enforcement questions arise.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mediation Representation Agreements

Answers to common execution and enforceability questions, including e-signature, notarization, amendment, and revocation basics.


Need help? Contact support

be ready to get more
Join over 28 million airSlate SignNow users