Local Rule LBR 9019-14: Attendance at Mediation Conference
Bankr. W.D. Mich. — General rule
LBR 9019-14: Attendance at Mediation Conference
(a) Counsel. Counsel for each party primarily responsible for resolving the matter (and unrepresented parties) shall personally attend the Mediation Conference and any adjourned sessions. All counsel and parties shall come prepared to discuss all liability issues, all damage issues, and the position of the party relative to settlement.
(b) Parties. All individual parties, and representatives with authority to negotiate and to settle the matter on behalf of parties other than individuals, shall personally attend the Mediation Conference unless excused by the mediator for cause. A bankruptcy trustee need not be physically present so long as the trustee is represented by counsel, their counsel personally attends the mediation and the trustee can be reached throughout the entirety of the Mediation Conference.
(c) Telephonic Attendance. A party or lawyer who is excused by the Court or the mediator from appearing in person at the Mediation Conference may be required to participate by telephone.