What is online mediation and how does it work?
Online mediation is a mediation session held by video, where each person joins from their own space, a neutral mediator guides the conversation, private breakout rooms are used for one-on-one talks, and the final agreement is written and signed during the call.
Online mediation is mediation held by video. You and the other person each join from your own space, and a neutral mediator guides the conversation toward an agreement you can both live with.
How does an online session work?
The structure is the same as mediation in a room. The mediator opens by explaining the process and the ground rules. Each person then has a turn to share what happened and what matters to them. Together you set an agenda, work through options and test whether they will hold up in practice. When you reach terms you both accept, they are written down and signed.
The difference is the setting. Instead of sitting across a table, you each join from home, an office or another private place. You can see and hear each other, but you don't share the same space. For some people that distance makes it easier to stay calm and speak clearly.
For a closer look at each stage, read what happens in a mediation session.
Run your own numbers
See a rough comparison for your situation in about a minute.
Open the savings toolWhat happens in a private breakout room?
Sometimes it helps for the mediator to talk with each person alone. This is called a caucus. Online, the mediator moves each of you into a separate breakout room and steps between them.
In a caucus, you can think out loud, name a worry or test an idea without the other person hearing. The mediator holds what you say in confidence and asks before carrying anything back. When you are ready, everyone returns to the main room. Our guide on what a caucus is explains how these private talks help.
What do you need to take part?
Not much. A few things make the session go smoothly.
A quiet, private room. Choose a space where you won't be interrupted and where others can't overhear. If you share a home, let people know ahead of time that you need the room. Headphones can help.
A stable connection. A reliable internet connection matters more than a fancy device. If your Wi-Fi is weak, sit closer to the router or use a wired connection. Test your camera and microphone before the session starts.
Your documents. Have any paperwork that matters close at hand. That might be receipts, a lease, a contract, bank statements or messages. If you need to share something, it helps to have it saved as a file you can open quickly.
A laptop or desktop is usually easier than a phone, since you may want to read a draft agreement on screen.
How is the agreement written and signed?
Near the end of the session, once you have settled the terms, the mediator drafts the agreement. You both read it on screen, ask questions and suggest changes. Nothing is final until both of you are comfortable with the wording.
When you are ready, you sign it on the call. You each leave with a copy. If you want an attorney to review it first, you can take time to do that before signing. A signed written agreement is generally treated as a contract between the two of you. Our guide on whether a mediation agreement is legally binding explains more. This is general information, not legal advice.
Is online mediation private?
Yes. At Salt City Mediation, sessions are by video and are not recorded. A live transcript is used only to draft the agreement and is deleted once the agreement is signed.
Mediation is a private process, and Utah recognizes it as confidential, with a few legal exceptions. You can speak openly about what matters to you. For details, see whether mediation is confidential.
Who does online mediation suit?
Online mediation works well for many people. It can suit you if you live in different parts of Utah, have a busy schedule, or simply feel more at ease at home. It also helps when being in the same room would feel tense. Small money disputes, roommate disagreements, co-founder conflicts and many family matters can all be handled well by video.
When might in-person be a better fit?
Online isn't right for everyone. In-person mediation may suit you better if you aren't comfortable with video calls, don't have a private place to join from or have an unreliable connection. If there are safety concerns between you and the other person, talk with the mediator before anything is scheduled. A mediator may suggest a different approach, or that mediation isn't the right step.
Curious whether online mediation could work for you? Book a free 15-minute consult with Salt City Mediation.
Common questions
Is online mediation as effective as in-person mediation?
For many disputes, it works well. The process is the same. You still share your view, set an agenda, work through options and write an agreement. Some people find it easier to stay calm at home than in an unfamiliar office. In-person may suit you better if the technology itself would get in the way of the conversation.
What do I need for an online mediation session?
A quiet, private room, a stable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone. A laptop or desktop is easier than a phone for reading documents. Have any paperwork that matters ready to share, such as receipts, contracts or messages, and give yourself a few minutes before the session to test your setup.
Are online mediation sessions recorded?
At Salt City Mediation, sessions are not recorded. A live transcript is used only to draft the agreement and is deleted once the agreement is signed. Mediation is a private process, and you can speak openly about what matters to you. Other mediators may handle this differently, so it is worth asking before you book.
David Ring III
Mediator and founder of Salt City Mediation LLC. Founder of EmpathEase, an app for practicing empathy and Nonviolent Communication. Completed Utah Dispute Resolution's 40-hour mediation training in 2026.