The book begins with an overview of the relation of theory to practice in mediation and brief synopses of the relation between structure and dynamics in interjurisdictional negotiation and the mediation role in complex negotiation structures. A description of the evolution of Virginia's new approach that applies negotiation to annexation conflicts includes a review of enabling legislation, the structural role of the new agency, and the 4 years of experience under the program. Case studies of two highly adversarial annexation cases (Leesburg-Loudoun County and Virginia City-Oceanside County) demonstrate the effects of critical variables on interjurisdictional negotiation. The variables are the external environment of statutory requirements and decisionmaking by the administrative agency, the parties' involvement with negotiating positions and with each other, and the mediator's interventions. The presentation of a model of the dynamics of intergovernmental negotiation is followed by the depiction of the mediator's role in intergovernmental disputes. Chapter notes and 55-item bibliography.