To be maximally effective, the mediation advocate needs to be both knowledgeable and capable in the eyes of the "other side", and a trusted counselor in the eyes of his or her client. In order to wear both hats effectively, the advocate must adopt different approaches in presentation, depending on his or her audience at a given moment. Know your case and know your audience. With those two foundations, the advocate in you will help maximize options for the client to consider.
Richard Lord is a Shareholder at the firm of Upchurch Watson White and Max.
