To be productive, the mediation process requires that the parties come to the table in good faith and with an open mind.  It requires a true neutral -- that is, someone dedicated to undertake a productive facilitation of communication and to promote a mutual understanding of the interests, the goals and the problems of all sides to a controversy, someone with a good command of not only the legalities but also the practical considerations unique to the dispute.   The mediation process, undertaken in good faith and with care, usually resolves the controversy.  Some matters, however, particularly complex disputes, matters taken to mediation early, or problems charged with emotion do not always get resolved in a first mediation session.   A mediation, even one that is not resolved at a first session, is nevertheless successful if the matter is partially resolved or, if otherwise, building blocks are put in place to focus the controversy, to diffuse emotional obstacles, or to facilitate ongoing communication -- all likely to lead in due course to final good and productive solutions that avoid courtroom trial risks.