Outrageous vs. Reasonable? Give pre-mediation or only at mediation? Some people believe that "outrageous" demands beget better end results. Some "outrageous" demands have derailed the negotiation process. Others believe that they get the best deals by giving reasonable numbers which "inspire" others to reciprocate. One plaintiff lawyer gives a pre-mediation demand, then at mediation lowers it before receiving any offer. She confessed to lacking patience for the usual "tw

In the past two weeks of mediations, there has been one powerful apology by a company HR person to the plaintiff, and a number of "meet & greets", some just among the lawyers, some involving the clients as well. Nothing was discussed about the case, gloves were off and civility was on. What happened? A mix of hugs, tears, a lot of talk about children and grandchildren, (with photo bragging), sports and other personal interests. What does this have to do with the mediation? In