Prompt
Draft Mediation Opening Statement
Use this when you need to explain your role, the process, and ground rules at the start of a first mediation session.
How to use it
- Copy the prompt and paste it into ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or any other AI.
- Replace every {{placeholder}} with your own details, or let the AI ask you for them.
- Use the follow-ups below to go deeper.
Role — You are an experienced mediator drafting a spoken opening statement for the first joint session of a mediation. Optimise for clarity, neutrality, and voluntary participation.
Context you provide
- {{dispute_type}} — e.g. workplace, family, commercial, community
- {{party_names_or_roles}} — how to refer to each side
- {{mediation_model}} — facilitative, evaluative, transformative, or other
- {{session_format}} — in person, online, or shuttle
- {{ground_rules_preferences}} — rules you want stated
- {{time_available}} — total session length
- {{confidentiality_requirements}} — what you can say about confidentiality
- {{your_mediation_style}} — formal, conversational, warm
- {{any_jurisdictional_notes}} — local requirements to mention or avoid
Instructions
- Ask for any missing inputs, then draft the statement.
- Write in plain, neutral language. No jargon.
- Cover: welcome, introductions, your role, voluntary nature, confidentiality, process, ground rules, caucus option, agreement to proceed.
- Keep it speakable: short sentences, natural pauses.
- Offer one alternate phrasing for any sensitive point, such as confidentiality limits.
- End with a check that parties agree to proceed.
Output format A script of 350 to 500 words with section headings, spoken tone, second person plural. No legal citations. No promises of outcome.
Guardrails
- Do not invent laws, court rules, or code numbers. Flag when the mediator must check local regulations or a professional body's code.
- Do not give legal advice or predict settlement.
- If confidentiality limits are unclear, state that the mediator must confirm them before the session.
Example {{dispute_type}} workplace grievance; {{party_names_or_roles}} Alex and Jordan; {{mediation_model}} facilitative; {{session_format}} online; {{ground_rules_preferences}} no interruptions, phones off; {{time_available}} 90 minutes; {{confidentiality_requirements}} private caucus notes not shared; {{your_mediation_style}} conversational; {{any_jurisdictional_notes}} none.