A county government and a construction firm are in mediation…
A county government and a construction firm are in mediation over delays and cost overruns in a community center renovation project. In the joint session, both sides are initially polite but clearly frustrated. A county commissioner repeatedly references broken promises and rising community outrage, while the contractor defends its timeline and warns that additional demands may result in further costs. The mediator listens attentively, paraphrases key concerns, and asks clarifying questions, but the tone of the conversation becomes increasingly rigid. After a long pause, the mediator looks at both parties and says, “I think it may be helpful to speak with each of you separately for a bit.” What are three potential advantages of moving from a joint session to caucuses?