(a) If the parties are unable to resolve the claim pursuant to section 672E-5 or 672E-6, all parties shall attempt to resolve the dispute through mediation, even if mediation is not otherwise ordered or mandated by contract or by law; provided that the parties shall not be required to attempt to resolve the dispute through mediation more than once.
(b) Mediation shall be completed within twelve months of the filing of the notice of the claim, unless the parties agree or the court orders otherwise.