Legal Definitions - settlement counsel

Definition: Settlement counsel is an attorney-employee of a U.S. court of appeals who mediates civil cases, usually before oral argument. They are also known as circuit mediators or preargument-conference attorneys.

Example: If two parties are involved in a civil case and are unable to reach a settlement, they may seek the assistance of a settlement counsel. The settlement counsel will work with both parties to help them come to an agreement before the case goes to trial.

Explanation: Settlement counsel is a neutral third party who helps parties in a civil case come to an agreement without going to trial. They are employed by the court of appeals and are trained in mediation techniques. The example illustrates how settlement counsel can help parties avoid the time and expense of a trial by facilitating a settlement.