The United States Third Circuit Court of Appeals Appellate Mediation Program
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A. Eligibility for Mediation and Selection of Cases for Mediation
1. What cases are eligible for mediation?
2. Are all civil cases mediated?
3. Who will decide whether a case is selected for mediation?
How are cases selected?
4. May I request mediation?
Can the request be made without the opposing side knowing of the request?
5. How will I know if my case is selected for mediation?
6. May I request mediation even after a case is not selected for mediation?
7. If a case is selected for mediation, is mediation mandatory?
May I "opt-out" of mediation?
8. May the court refer a case to mediation?B. The Mediator
1. Who will be the mediator, and how is the mediator selected?
2. How can I find out biographical information about the mediator?C. Impact of the Mediation Process on the Appellate Process
1. Is the appellate process stayed when a case is selected for mediation?
2. When can I expect a briefing schedule?1. How will the mediation session be conducted?
What takes place at the mediation?
2. Will the mediation be conducted in person or by telephone?
3. Who must be present at the mediation session?
4. Will the mediation session be confidential?
5. What must I file before the mediation session?
How many copies and how may it be filed?
6. Is the mediation limited to the appeal itself?
What if there are other disputes between the parties which are not involved in the appeal?
7. If a settlement is reached, will the terms of the settlement be confidential?1. What happens procedurally if a case settles as a result of the mediation?
2. What happens procedurally if a case does not settle after mediation?F. Directions to the Philadelphia Mediation Office
1. Is parking available near the Courthouse?