Representation of parties may be in person or by authorised representative subject to the mediator's direction. Representation in mediation and conciliation sessions generally requires parties to attend personally or through an authorised attorney; the mediator or conciliator may permit representation by an authorised person or counsel and, along with the Central Government, the Tribunal, or the Appellate Tribunal as applicable, may direct a party to appear in person; non-resident parties may be represented by an authorised representative with the mediator's permission.