Opening Statement

Opening Statement: As earlier stated, the opening statement shows good preparation for this particular case on the part of the mediator, Dr Haynes. It shows that he has done his homework on the couple. The background goes a long way in constructing the big picture for the mediator. However, the mediator cannot go on the background alone.
The opening statement forms the precedence for the entire mediating session. It is with the opening statement that the mediator asserts his position and his role in resolving the conflict. The opening statement serves to familiarize the mediator with the conflicting parties just before the session begins. Albeit briefly, the opening statement gives the conflicting parties a rough idea of how the process is going to go. It is also here that the mediator has a chance to show

Though brief, however, he was able to communicate loads to the couple. From his brief opening statement, the couple understands some vital things. One of these is that they were referred to him by their attorneys. While this is only mentioned in passing, it shows the couple what a big problem the custody battle has begun. This way, both Michael and Debbie have a grasp of how difficult their situation is. This helps them understand that it is crucial that they come to a resolution.
In his opening statement, he also asserts his position as mediator. He asserts that his prime focus in this process is the children and what is in their best interests. It is objectively clear that his wishes are not to be involved in all other underlying shenanigans between the couple. Dr Haynes understands that divorce can be messy. He understands that there will be a lot of unresolved feelings and hostile undertones between the divorcing/ divorced couple. For this reason, he recognises that there will need to be an impartial party; that is, one who is not invested in the individuals as a