L.A.R. 33.6: Mediation in Pro Se Cases

In appropriate cases, the Chief Circuit Mediator may request counsel to represent pro se litigants for purposes of mediation only. Counsel must agree to take the case on a pro bono basis, except that if an applicable statute authorizes the award of attorneys’ fees, counsel may enter into a written agreement with the client assigning to the attorney any amounts designated as attorneys’ fees. The case will be treated as any other case subject to mediation and all provisions of L.A.R. 33 will apply. If mediation is unsuccessful, counsel may discontinue his or her representation; however, counsel may continue to represent the litigant through the rest of the appeal if counsel wishes and the party agrees. The Chief Circuit Mediator may adopt and implement specific procedures in furtherance of this rule.

The rule was amended in 2011 to reflect a change in the title of the circuit mediator and to accommodate electronic filing.