Nevertheless, some people find it difficult to stand up for themselves. Mediation would not be appropriate in this situation. Mediation does not provide some of the safeguards for full disclosure that are present in legal proceedings. In mediation, both parties voluntarily disclose all information necessary to settle the conflict. If you do not trust the other party to make an honest disclosure, mediation may not be appropriate.
Mediation requires the physical presence of all parties at all meetings.
If there is uncertainty about the presence of any of the parties, mediation may not be possible or reasonable. If the mediator feels the victim will not feel secure enough to fully participate in the process, mediation will not be conducted. If legal counsel advises against mediation, mediation services will not be provided. In some situations parties are located in different rooms and meet with the mediator who goes from one room to the other. You are trying to solve the problem, not win.