Iowa Ct. R. 11.2 (2026)

Rule 11.2 Self-determination. 11.2(1) A mediator shall conduct a mediation based on the principle of party self-determination. Self-determination is the act of coming to a voluntary, uncoerced decision in which each party makes free and informed choices as to process and outcome. Parties may exercise self-determination at any stage of mediation, including mediator selection, process design, participation in or withdrawal from the process, and outcomes. a. Although party self-determination for process design is a fundamental principle of mediation practice, a mediator may need to balance such party self-determination with a mediator’s duty to conduct a quality process in accordance with these standards. b. A mediator cannot personally ensure that each party has made free and informed choices to reach particular decisions, but where appropriate, a mediator should make the parties aware of the importance of consulting other professionals to help the parties make informed choices. 11.2(2) A mediator shall not undermine any party’s self-determination for reasons such as higher settlement rates, egos, increased fees, or outside pressures from court personnel, program administrators, provider organizations, the media, or others. [Court Order November 10, 2011, effective January 1, 2012]

Ch 11, p.2 STANDARDS OF CONDUCT FOR MEDIATORS January 2012