What is a settlement conference?

A settlement conference is a meeting between two or more parties involved in a civil lawsuit to try and negotiate a resolution. It is usually held before the case goes to trial. In California, settlement conferences are conducted by a judge or a court-appointed neutral third party. During the settlement conference, both sides will present their argument and try to reach an agreement. This process is confidential and usually takes place outside of court. The goal of the settlement conference is to avoid the cost, time and stress of a trial by attempting to reach an agreement that both sides can live with. Generally, each party will present a settlement offer that they would be willing to accept, and the goal of the conference is to come to an agreement that is mutually beneficial. During the conference, both sides can negotiate the details of the agreement, such as the amount of damages, the amount of fees, and other terms. Not all cases will settle during the settlement conference. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the case may still proceed to trial. However, if the sides are able to reach a resolution, the settlement is then put into a written agreement that both sides sign, and the case is closed.

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