I believe in Mediation for a very basic reason. I have seen the process at work, and it works. Like any other process it works best when you know how and when to use it. Based on my experiences with the process I believe that I can give some advise on both points. Having said that, you may ask what my experience is. The answer is that I have personally experienced mediation from all the positions you can occupy at the mediation table. As a certified mediator I have facilitated mediations. As an attorney, I have represented both plaintiffs and defendants in mediation. I have had problems of my own resolved in mediation. From this experience I have distilled five basic questions to ask to be sure that you get the most out of your next mediation experience.