An independent lawyer is not required to successfully complete an estate mediation. Each party may be advised throughout the process by a lawyer of their choice. The parties may also be assisted by their lawyers during the mediation sessions. The presence of a lawyer for some of the heirs in the mediation process should not be viewed by the unrepresented heirs as an act of disownment. It is important to remember that each of the heirs or executors must be comfortable in the mediation process. This includes the presence of their lawyer.