Update to my employment crisis

Today I heard that the steering committee has decided to hire a 3rd party to investigate my grievance. They hired a lawyer. This surprised me as I always think of lawyers in connection with court cases. I looked up her info on the 'net and she identifies two of her areas as mediation and work around respectful workplaces. I was panicking when I heard that steering committee sent me something. That old belief that I'm just going to get kicked around again crept in. This makes me hopeful. I asked for expertise on workplace bullying to be brought in, and I would imagine that is covered in the idea of a respectful workplace. I asked for mediation, and it looks like this could be addressed, too. Still feel slightly unsure though. Will have to meet her and see.