Mediation

Mediation is a flexible process conducted confidentially in which a neutral person (mediator) actively assists parties to identify the dispute issues, develop options, consider alternatives and working towards a negotiated agreement of a dispute or difference, with the parties in ultimate control of the decision to settle and the terms of that settlement.

Purposes of Mediation

The main purposes are to

Promote access to justice
Promote restorative justice
Preserve relationships between disputants
Facilitate a resolution between disputants

We assist parties that are in dispute with the opportunity of resolving their dispute in an amicable and mutually beneficial manner by

Facilitating open discussions
Identifying core issues
Exploring areas of compromise
Generating options to resolve the dispute

Benefits of Mediation

  • Greater Control: The parties are actively involved in the process and in control of the outcome of the mediation

  • It is confidential: Unlike the potential publicity of court proceedings, everything said at mediation is entirely confidential (unless specifically agreed otherwise)

  • It is voluntary: Any party may withdraw at any time during the process

  • Convenience: The mediator listens to everyone’s view, talks to the parties privately and/or together guiding them to words a potential settlement

  • Reduced costs: Generally the costs is greatly reduced in comparison with settling a matter through court as traditional litigation is expensive and highly unpredictable

  • Faster outcome: Mediation can be used early in a dispute and an agreement can usually be reached quicker than in the normal litigation process

  • Support: A mediator acts as an objective neutral facilitator and supports each party through the process

  • Preservation of relationships: Whether the dispute is a business or family dispute, preservation of relationships is a key benefit