This amended rule applies to any contested civil matter pending in the Cook County Law Division. Under the rule, cases may be referred to the mediation by the court or by motion of the parties. Discovery is to continue throughout the mediation process. Mediators approved by the court have judicial immunity in the same manner and extent as a judge. Confidentiality extends to all oral and written communications with the mediator at any time. The rule also discusses the manner in which mediators are appointed, the compensation of the mediator, and the conduct of the mediation.