(1) Parties to a dispute are the claimant and the insurer, or alleged insurer.

(2) A claimant may be self-represented, or represented by an unpaid representative, or an attorney licensed to practice law in Montana. An insurer may be represented by a designated representative. However, a claimant must attend mediation conferences, except if the mediator excuses the claimant for good cause.

(3) Parties may bring witnesses to a mediation conference with the consent of the mediator.