29 7. Confidentiality – the procedure is confidential – no recording of what is being said – no statement can be used in court, if process fails   8. Flexibility and simplicity – summary record of the essential proceedings – no brief or written arguments – the parties choose their own rules – the mediator may meet all the parties together or meet them separately if they so agree – no formal testimony or sworn statement 9. Duration – usually, one session of 3 hours will determine f an amicable settlement is possible – if after one session, there is a beginning of understanding between the parties, a second or a third meeting may be useful – if the dispute is technical, the parties may bring their experts 10. Judge M ediator = Director of an orchestra – in a subtle and non authoritative manner, he tries to keep the discussion on central issues while maintaining a certain degree of serenity in the debate (sometimes though ... a session to let off steam) may have some therapeutic value