Ill. R. Cir. Ct. McHenry Cnty. 18.11

As amended through September 23, 2024

Rule 18.11 - PERSONAL SAFETY PROTOCOLS

A.Facility Requirements. Two separate rooms should be available for each mediation in the event that shuttle mediation is pursued during the course of any given session or sessions. The rooms should not be connected by a common door, but each should have independent access to a common hallway or exit.

Each room should have a phone or intercom device to allow communication in case of an emergency. A separate room should be provided to secure participants' purses, briefcases, coats and other personal effects.

Mediators are encouraged to supply pens, pencils and other writing utensils in order to control objects that could be considered weapons.

B.Personnel Requirements. It is strongly recommended that other staff or nonparticipating persons be available within the physical plant during all mediation sessions. This person or persons should be available to assist with emergency phone matters, to monitor parties' movements during shuttle mediation, and to assist the mediator in implementing appropriate exit procedures.

C.Exit Procedures. Proper precautions should be taken to ensure that participants actually leave the premises when the session is completed. If sessions are contemplated during evening hours, sufficient artificial lighting should be available in all parking areas. If shuttle mediation is in process or other special circumstances exist, parties should leave separately and be monitored by the mediator or staff as the parties leave.

D.Notice to Participants. Each mediator is responsible for notifying each participant as such session commences that:

1. No physical confrontation shall be tolerated between the parties;

2. Such inappropriate conduct constitutes grounds to terminate the session without refund;

3. Such conduct may cause police or official intervention immediately;

4. No form of a weapon shall be allowed in the mediation room; and

5. All personal effects, including purses, briefcases and exterior coats, shall be maintained and secured outside of the mediation area.

Ill. R. Cir. Ct. McHenry Cnty. 18.11