Writing a persuasive brief is one of the most important things an attorney can do to prepare for mediation of a business dispute. A good brief provides the opposing side with information they need to consider. Perhaps even more important though is an excellent brief that can help the mediator assist with successful resolution.

Here are six tips:

1. Outline the facts of the case, describing them from your client’s point of view. For example, what duties are included in the contract between the parties? What were the actions that led to the claimed breach? Review the key facts in some detail but avoid repetition and leave out peripheral issues. Then edit to remove the excess words. Your brief will be most persuasive if it is pared down and covers only significant facts.

Originally published on Law.com on October 20, 2014.