What does Section 26 of the CPA allow regarding mediation?

Section 26 of the Civil Procedure Act (CPA) explicitly provides the court with the authority to order mediation, even if the parties do not consent to participate. This section empowers judges to facilitate the resolution of disputes outside of traditional court proceedings by providing an avenue for mediation, which can lead to more efficient and cost-effective outcomes. By allowing the court to mandate mediation, the CPA aims to reduce the backlog in courts and encourage resolution of disputes in a collaborative environment.

The fact that court-ordered mediation can occur without the parties' consent is significant because it underscores the court's role in actively promoting alternative dispute resolution methods. This approach can be particularly beneficial in complex cases where parties may have conflicting interests, as it enables a neutral third-party mediator to assist in resolving their issues.

The other options misrepresent the provisions of Section 26. For instance, court referrals to mediation are not contingent upon the consent of the parties, and it is also not accurate to suggest that only parties can initiate mediation or that mediation is not permitted in court proceedings since mediation is an integral part of the court's strategy to facilitate settlements.