What is mediation?

Mediation is a process that can be used to settle a wide spectrum of disputes, such as those arising out of commercial contracts, landlord and tenant relationships, property ownership, boundaries and rights of way.

It is a voluntary, private and confidential meeting of the parties, where, with the assistance of a mediator acting as a facilitator and an impartial third party, the parties can attempt to reach a settlement that is acceptable to all those involved.

If the parties do reach a settlement, the agreement will be binding. If they are unable to reach a settlement or agreement, the matter can still carry on to court, where the details of the mediation will not be disclosed.

One important point is that mediation does not rely on normal court remedies. This is its great strength as there may be solutions which would otherwise not be available to the court, but which suit the situation, and which may help the parties to reach a settlement.

How does it work?

A mediation normally takes place over one day and tends to involve both parties meeting with an independent mediator who will try to facilitate a settlement agreeable to both. The aim is to allow the parties to reach a mutually acceptable compromise.

The mediator’s role is to act as a go-between, to help the parties to reach their own conclusion. If an agreement is reached it will be set out in writing and signed by the parties. This agreement will then be enforceable by the courts without the need to go to a full hearing.

What are its advantages?

• Flexibility: arrangements can be made to discuss things which might be outside the scope of any formal dispute:
• Confidentiality: what is said at mediation stays at mediation
• Helps retain relationships: may help businesses preserve commercial relationships with those with whom they are in dispute, as it needs a collaborative approach to reach a result
• Speed: mediation is arranged to suit the parties and can often be set up in a matter of days
• Effective: around 80 per cent of mediations settle on the day or shortly afterwards, making it an attractive and highly effective way to resolve a dispute.

What disputes are suitable for mediation?

• Commercial disputes
• Environmental disputes
• Contested wills
• Property disputes
• Construction disputes
• Landlord and tenant disputes
• Personal injury disputes
• Probate disputes
• Professional negligence disputes
• Supplier-client disputes
• Neighbour disputes.

When should it be considered instead of litigation?

• If the cost of litigation is expected to be disproportionate to the value of the claim
• If negotiations are deadlocked
• If there are multiple actions involving common parties
• If the issues are highly complex and involve multiple parties
• If the issues involved are sensitive or require the disclosure of sensitive information
• If the parties want to avoid publicity.

How much does it cost?

The cost of mediation depends on the complexity of the issues involved and the length of time required which will be established and fixed at the outset. The parties share the cost equally and they do not have to appoint legal representatives.

Author: Nick Cox

Willans LLP

DISCLAIMER: This article should not be regarded as constituting legal advice in relation to particular circumstances. This article is merely a general comment on the relevant topic. If specific advice is required in connection with any of the matters covered in this article, please speak to Willans LLP directly.