It is no secret that a mediation is far more likely to be successful if the claims handler or adjuster is present in person for the mediation. It is much easier for a defense attorney with previous authority to simply say he can go no higher or for an adjuster attending the mediation by phone to say “no” than if he/she were present in person. Plaintiff's (and defense attorneys too that want to get the matter settled), with a King County case and King County adjuster should keep LR 16(b)(3)(B) in mind as it requires the claims handler to be present for the mediation. There are quite a few insurance companies that have a local presence. Reminding counsel of this recently integrated rule could be the difference between a case settling or not. Good luck with your mediation. If you want to mediate with someone that guarantees satisfaction with the result or will refund your fees, give Weber Mediation a call. Thanks for your time, Bill Weber.