What mediation means for the archdiocese, insurers and victims

Former federal Judge Arthur Boylan is serving as mediator in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis’ bankruptcy case.

Boylan has settled thousands of cases through mediation, including the 2011 labor dispute between the National Football League and its players’ union.

In this case, Boylan will work with the parties involved toward some sort of consensus. That requires a lot of listening, so Boylan can best understand the groups involved — and ensure they feel fairly treated.

Boylan’s role is to guide the process, as a neutral player, to an equitable solution.