What type of mediation involves individual meetings before a joint session to reach an agreement?

Victim-offender mediation is characterized by its structured approach to conflict resolution, particularly in cases involving crime. In this type of mediation, the process typically begins with separate meetings, called pre-conference meetings, with both the victim and the offender. These initial meetings allow the mediator to understand each party's perspective, feelings, and needs before bringing them together for a joint session.

The use of individual meetings is crucial; it enables a safe environment where participants can express their thoughts and emotions without the immediate pressure of facing the other party. This step is vital in building trust and preparing both parties for a productive dialogue in the joint session. The ultimate aim is to facilitate a conversation that leads to a mutual agreement on how to address the harm caused by the offense, fostering accountability and understanding between the victim and the offender.

In contrast, other forms of mediation do not necessarily follow this structure. For instance, community mediation typically addresses local disputes without the specific victim-offender dynamic. Collaborative mediation focuses more on joint sessions from the start, aiming for cooperation rather than separating the parties initially. Circular mediation involves all parties communicating with each other, often in a circle, without the separated approach seen in victim-offender mediation. Each of these methods has distinct processes that do not