Legal Question in Mediation in California

Re: Wrongful death of my Mother

Wrongful death damages depend on the relationship. It also depends on many factors such as age, involvement, etc. Sometimes the chance for mediation may come suddenly, but it would be very unusual for it to only be on 4 days notice. I would suggest you confer with other attorneys and consider replacing this attorney.

Joel

JOEL SELIK

Attorney at Law

800-894-2889

760-479-1515

702-243-1930

Licensed to Practice Law in California and Nevada Only

CONCENTRATING PERSONAL INJURY, WRONGFUL DEATH, AUTO ACCIDENT, Malpractice, Appeals, Elder Neglect/Abuse/Nursing Home Malpractice

Real Estate, and Other Legal Matters

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Re: Wrongful death of my Mother

Mediation is entirely up to the parties and they can handle it however they wish. Your opponents may be insisting that they will give you only this one chance to settle. This is a bargaining strategy, and is common "posturing." It may have to do with what they expect they can save by going to trial--the longer the case lasts, the more money each side spends, so many attorneys try to settle early. Once the insurance company has spent a certain amount of money, they may think it is worth taking a chance that you will lose in court.

It is possible that your attorney can attend the mediation without you (depending on the mediator's requirements) and include you by telephone or you may ask the other side for a later date.

You should discuss your strategy with your attorney and ask him to explain anything you don't understand, including the process.