Our sources have advised that, as of August 15, 1996, pre-trial mediation proceedings are mandatory in trademark opposition proceedings as well as in other trademark litigation matters. In opposition proceedings, the mediation will occur after the opposition is filed with the Trademark Office, but before the opposition is moved to Court, and the procedure is expected to take from three to four months. It is hoped that the new procedure will help to avoid litigation expenses for those cases that can be settled without Court action.