As amended through October 21, 2024
(a) Generally. A mediator shall not provide information the mediator is not qualified by training or experience to provide. (b) Independent Legal Advice. When a mediator believes a party does not understand or appreciate how a potential agreement reached through the mediation process may adversely affect the party's legal rights or obligations, the mediator should advise the participants to seek independent legal advice. (c) Absent Party. If one of the parties is unable to participate in the mediation process for psychological or physical reasons, a mediator should postpone or cancel mediation until such time as all parties are able to participate. (d) Personal or Professional Opinion. A mediator may discuss possible outcomes of a case, but a mediator may not offer a personal or professional opinion regarding the likelihood or any specific outcome except in the presence of the attorney for the party to whom the opinion is given. Ala. Med. Ethics Code, III, STANDARD 7