Mediation, one of the methods of alternate dispute resolution (ADR), Is an assisted negotiation process...

The representative of each party in a mediation must have the authority to conclude a settlement. This is essential for the mediation process to be effective, as the mediator facilitates negotiations with the goal of reaching a settlement that all parties can agree to. If the representatives do not have the necessary authority to agree to a settlement, the process can become futile, wasting time and resources without achieving a resolution​​.