Not only are the parties to mediation allowed to bring their attorney, they are encouraged to do so.  Remember, the mediator may not give advice or opinion, so the parties must look to their attorney for such advice or opinion.  Attorneys are also present to lend moral support, and counsel to their clients.  Although a mediator may, in his/her discretion and with the agreement of the parties, proceed without the attorney being present, they are reluctant to do so.  If there is an attorney of record, who is not present at a Circuit civil mediation, the mediator must provide a copy of the agreement to the absent attorney.