(a) Orientation Session. In order for parties to exercise self-determination they must understand the mediation process. At the beginning of the mediation session, the mediator should explain the mediation process. This explanation should include: (1) The role of the mediator as a neutral party who will facilitate the discussion between the disputing parties but who will not decide the outcome of the dispute; (2) The procedures that will be followed during the mediation session or sessions; (3) The pledge of confidentiality that applies to the mediation process: (4) The fact that the mediator does not represent either party and will not give professional advice in the absence of a party's attorney and that, if expert advice is needed, the parties will be expected to consult with experts other than the mediator: and (5) The fact that the mediation can be terminated at any time by the mediator or by any of the parties. Further, in the event a party is not represented by an attorney, the mediator should explain:
(1) That the parties are free to consult legal counsel at any time and are encouraged to have any settlement agreement resulting from the mediation process reviewed by counsel before they sign it: and (2) That a mediated agreement, once signed, is binding and can have a significant effect upon the rights of the parties and upon the status of the case. (b) Continuing Mediation. A mediator shall withdraw from a mediation if the mediator believes the mediation is being used to further illegal conduct. A mediator may withdraw if the mediator believes any agreement reached would be the result of fraud, duress, overreaching, the absence of bargaining ability, or unconscionability. A mediator shall not prolong a mediation session if it becomes apparent that the case is unsuitable for mediation or if one or more of the parties is unable or unwilling to participate in the mediation process in a meaningful manner, (c) Avoidance of Delay. A mediator shall perform mediation services in a timely and expeditious fashion, avoiding delays whenever reasonably possible. A mediator shall refrain from accepting additional appointments when it becomes apparent that completion of mediation assignments already accepted cannot be accomplished in a timely fashion. Ala. Med. Ethics Code, III, STANDARD 3