Late-stage mediation has been a familiar process for attorneys in many jurisdictions. This method of dealing with impasses tends to work well to avoid trials, but clients today are also interested in reducing expenses and animosity. Early stage mediation is a method of accomplishing both. Additionally, research has begun to show the efficacy of pre-mediation separate meetings with parties. This workshop will examine both early stage mediation and pre-mediation meetings, and the do’s and don’ts to make them efficient and effective.