The process by which a neutral third party assists the parties to a dispute in reaching a mutually acceptable settlement. The Mediator serves as the neutral third party who is chosen by the parties. For purposes of Paragraph 26 of the Mediation Rules and Procedures contained herein, the mediation process begins from the time that the first request or inquiry is made for the commencement of a mediation, by any party, and continues thereafter for as long as there is any involvement whatsoever of the Mediator, ICM, its employees or associates, or any case manager or scheduler.