(1) A party has the right, but is not required, to attend a mediation hearing. If scars, disfigurement, or other unusual conditions exist, they may be demonstrated to the mediation panel by a personal appearance; however, testimony shall not be taken or permitted of any party.
  (2) The Michigan rules of evidence shall not apply before the mediation panel. Factual information having a bearing on damages or liability shall be supported by documentary evidence, if possible.

Terms Used In Michigan Laws 600.4913

  • Damages: Money paid by defendants to successful plaintiffs in civil cases to compensate the plaintiffs for their injuries.
  • Evidence: Information presented in testimony or in documents that is used to persuade the fact finder (judge or jury) to decide the case for one side or the other.
  • panel: means a mediation panel selected pursuant to section 4905. See Michigan Laws 600.4901
  • Settlement: Parties to a lawsuit resolve their difference without having a trial. Settlements often involve the payment of compensation by one party in satisfaction of the other party's claims.
  • shall not apply: means that the pertinent provision is not operative as to certain persons or things or in conjunction with a particular date or dates. See Michigan Laws 8.4c
  • Testimony: Evidence presented orally by witnesses during trials or before grand juries.
  (3) Oral presentation shall be limited to 15 minutes per side unless multiple parties or unusual circumstances warrant additional time. The mediation panel may request information on applicable insurance policy limits and may inquire about settlement negotiations, unless a party objects.
  (4) Statements by the attorneys and the briefs or summaries are not admissible in any subsequent court or evidentiary proceeding.
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