As its name implies, the role of a neutral in providing third-party assistance is not to take sides or do judge who is right to who is wrong (Liddle). Jones (1998) explains that the resolution will not be accepted by one or both parties if the neutral is not accepted as a person with no recognizable bias to the personalities and issues involved in the dispute. This is certainly the most obvious and the most important responsibility of the neutral. However, the job of the neutral is far more complex than many realize.
             Before the mediation process even starts, the neutral and the parties must establish ground rules (The role of the mediator). These make clear the purpose of mediation, explain how the mediation process works and identify the expected behaviors of all parties. Setting ground rules is particularly important because it will set the tone for the entire mediation process to generate enthusiastic participation.
             According to Jones (1998), the most difficult job of the neutral is to fully understand the causes of the conflict by gathering and analyzing information. This is because conflicts are caused by various reasons, typically different values, goals or personalities or some combination of these, that must be resolved in unique ways. Great attention to what is said and what is not said holds the key to appropriately framing the real issues. But first, the neutral must establish an open dialogue between the parties so that they can share their views.
             Building an environment where open communications can flourish is easier said than done. During mediation, Liddle advises that neutrals should: encourage disputing parties to engage in mediation and consider the benefits of discussing their differences and seeking a mutually acceptable resolution; establish a safe and constructive environment in which parties can talk and listen to each other; encourage parties to describe with clarity and purpose how they view ...