The COVID-19 pandemic is impacting all of us in ways we did not expect. For those involved in litigation, we are entering difficult and uncertain times, with courts limiting their services and jury trials on hold.

Mediation is more important than ever. We are transitioning from “alternative” dispute resolution to “essential” dispute resolution. If, for concerns of public safety, the courts cannot provide timely and predictable ways to resolve disputes, mediators must make this happen, safely, securely and effectively.