(A) Mediation. An informal process in which a third-party mediator facilitates
settlement discussions between parties. Any settlement is voluntary. In the
absence of settlement, the parties lose none of their rights to trial by judge or
jury.
(B) Mediator. A neutral person who acts to encourage and facilitate the
resolution of a pending civil action. The mediator has no authority to make
a decision or impose a settlement. Mediators are normally compensated by
the parties. See Local Civ. Rule 16.11 (D.S.C.).
