An Oklahoma Order for Settlement Conference (also known as LOSC) is an agreement that is reached between parties to resolve a dispute without going to trial. LOSC is a voluntary process in which a neutral third-party mediator is appointed to facilitate the resolution of the dispute. The mediator remains impartial and helps the parties to negotiate an agreement that is mutually satisfactory. LOSC is an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process that is more cost-effective and expeditious than litigation. There are two types of LOSC: pre-litigation and post-litigation. Pre-litigation LOSC occurs before litigation is filed and is intended to help the parties reach a resolution prior to filing a lawsuit. Post-litigation LOSC is a process that occurs after a lawsuit has been filed, and is intended to help the parties reach a resolution without going to trial. In an LOSC, the parties must agree to the terms of the settlement conference, the mediator, the time and location of the settlement conference, and the payment of the mediator's fees. The parties must also agree to keep the settlement conference confidential, as all communications and negotiations are confidential and cannot be presented in court. At the settlement conference, the parties present their positions and the mediator works to facilitate a settlement agreement that is mutually satisfactory. The mediator typically meets with the parties separately and assists the parties in understanding each other's positions and in negotiating an agreement. If an agreement is reached, the mediator will draw up a settlement agreement for the parties to sign. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the dispute may be sent to arbitration or to trial.