Online Mediation
How does online mediation work?
Online mediation uses video conference tools so parties, counsel, decision-makers, and a neutral mediator can meet from different locations. The mediator can use joint discussion and separate virtual rooms when useful.
Last updated May 2026
Key Points
The short version.
- Online mediation can reduce travel and scheduling barriers
- Parties can meet together or in separate virtual rooms
- Counsel and decision-makers can join from different locations
- Preparation still matters as much as the live session
- Privacy depends on platform setup and the parties' own environment
Why virtual mediation works
Many disputes do not require everyone to be physically in the same room. A structured video process can help parties talk, pause, caucus privately, and return to joint discussion when useful.
Virtual mediation can be especially helpful when parties are in different cities, different states, or busy professional roles.
What parties should prepare
Parties should make sure they have a private place to participate, reliable internet, any needed documents, and enough time blocked for the session.
If attorneys, insurance adjusters, business partners, or other decision-makers need to participate, they should be included in planning before the session.
Frequently asked questions
These answers explain mediation generally. They are not legal, financial, tax, insurance, claims-handling, valuation, business, therapeutic, mental health, or parenting advice.
Can online mediation work if people are in different states?
Often yes. Remote mediation by Zoom can work when parties are in different states. Legal questions about jurisdiction, filing, or applicable law should be reviewed with counsel.
Is online mediation private?
The process can be structured privately, but parties should also protect their own environment by using a private room, headphones when useful, and a secure connection.
Related Services
Connect this answer to the right process.
Mediation looks different depending on the dispute. These pages explain Flannel People Mediation's core service areas.