(a) Negotiation is a consensual bargaining process in which the parties attempt to resolve a claim and counterclaim. A negotiation under this subchapter may be conducted by any method, technique, or procedure authorized under the contract or agreed upon by the parties. The parties may conduct negotiations with the assistance of one or more neutral third parties. The parties may choose to mediate their dispute in accordance with §§71.111, 71.113, 71.115, 71.117, 71.119, 71.121, 71.123, and 71.125 of this subchapter.     
      (b) To facilitate meaningful evaluation and negotiation of the claims and any counterclaims, the parties may exchange relevant documents that support their respective claims, defenses, counterclaims or positions.     
     Source Note:        The provisions of this §71.99 adopted to be effective April 9, 2002, 27 TexReg 2813