Spencer Fane Partner Frank Neuner was recently published by Missouri Lawyers Weekly in an article discussing the use of opening statements in mediation.
Opening remarks, Neuner maintains, can be impactful when approached in a tactful way. “Parties settle cases because they conclude that the proposed deal is better than the likely (or possible) alternatives. What better way to help the other side reach that conclusion than to preview what those alternatives look like?” In making opening remarks in mediation, parties should avoid making personal attacks or trying to persuade the other side that it is wrong, but instead focus on issues and risks.
Neuner serves as a mediator for workplace conflicts, civil rights controversies, tort claims and business-related disputes. He has a wealth of experience mediating single-plaintiff disputes, as well as class and collective actions, including wage and hour cases. In addition to his private mediation practice, Frank serves as a mediator for the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Missouri Commission on Human Rights.
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