Rereading XV652's excellent assessment and wondering about what to expect as far as timing of Judge Wards ruling on the Higgins matter.  Can we read anything into it if no ruling before mediation starts? Would he try to be unbiased and let mediation progress a bit and chime in later if no progress? How likely is that? I assume not very.  Appreciate any thoughts, since we have all weekend to ponder them.  TIA   Opty