A US District judge recently granted a motion to amend an original motion in a case that involves the American Atheists Inc. and a now-named Bradley County resident versus Sheriff Eric Watson and Bradley County. The mediation is now scheduled for the morning of July 6 at Chattanooga’s US Courthouse, after the judge delayed discovery in the case so those involved can see how mediation plays out. All parties involved agreed in mid-June they would be willing to attempt mediation. 

Parties could spend the entire day of July 6 in mediation, as the judge said he will not impose a stop time. He compared the mediation to a private mediation and called his role as the mediator one in which he will play no role in adjudicating the case and stated he would not attempt to coerce a settlement. He further noted the case may or may not settle that day, but that he expects all parties to participate fully and to act in good faith. 

He further detailed what to expect at the mediation session by telling parties there will be a joint opening session with introductory statements, an opportunity for each side to provide a brief summary, and then an opportunity to discuss potential solutions.