Can the parties waive a mediator conflict?
General Mediation
Answer
Sometimes. If a disclosed relationship does not make impartial service impossible, the parties may agree to proceed after informed disclosure. The mediator must still independently determine whether serving would be ethically appropriate.
Reviewed by Wayne Lazarus on September 14, 2026.
Reviewed by Wayne H. Lazarus, attorney with more than 50 years’ experience, member of the State Bar of Georgia and The Florida Bar, and of Alternative Dispute Resolution sections.
This information is educational and is not legal advice.