Mediation termination: proceedings end on settlement signing, mediator declaration, party opt-out, or time-limit expiry. Termination of mediation under the Mediation Act, 2023 occurs on signing and authentication of the mediated settlement agreement; on a written declaration of the mediator that further mediation is no longer justified; on a party's written opt-out addressed to the mediator and other parties; or on expiry of the statutory time limit.