Rule 1 - Definition of Mediation and Scope of Rules(a) Mediation is an extra judicial procedure for the resolution of disputes, provided for by statute and by the Alabama Rules of Civil Procedure. A mediator facilitates negotiations between parties to a civil action and assists the parties in trying to reach a settlement, but does not have the authority to impose a settlement upon the parties. (b) These rules shall apply: (1) In mediations ordered by the courts of this State as provided by statute or by the Alabama Rules of Civil Procedure; (2) In any other mediations by parties in a pending civil action in an Alabama court, other than the Alabama Supreme Court or Alabama Court of Civil Appeals, unless the parties expressly provide otherwise; and, (3) In other mediations if the parties agree that these Rules shall apply.