[1] These standards are to be read and construed in their entirety. There is no priority significance attached to the sequence in which the standards appear. The use of the term "shall" in a standard indicates that the mediator must follow the practice described. The use of the term "should" indicates that the practice described in the standard is highly desirable but not required, is to be departed from only for very strong reasons, and requires careful use of judgment and discretion. [2] The use of the term "mediator" is inclusive and applies to co-mediator models. [3] These standards do not include specific temporal parameters when referencing a mediation, and therefore, do not define the exact beginning or ending of a mediation. [4] Various aspects of a mediation, including some matters covered by these standards, may also be affected by applicable law, court rules, regulations, other applicable professional rules, mediation rules to which the parties have agreed, and other agreements of the parties. These sources may create conflicts with, and may take precedence over, these standards. A mediator, however, should make every effort to comply with the spirit and intent of these standards in resolving such conflicts. This effort should include honoring all remaining standards not in conflict with these other sources.Stand. Cond. Med. CONSTRUCTION