Explore more about mediation and how I can help you resolve your conflict.

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a form of dispute resolution that helps individuals and/or businesses resolve issues with a third-party neutral, your mediator. Mediation usually takes place at a neutral venue and can be facilitated remotely if that is preferable to the parties.

The aim of mediation is to provide those involved with the tools to find amicable ways forward, avoid engaging with formal procedures and using litigation, and maintain or build on existing relationships. I will work with you before, during and potentially following the mediation session to provide the support needed to improve the situation. 

Who is typically involved in a Mediation?

The key people involved in mediation are the parties (those who are involved in the conflict or dispute). You may have a representative such as a lawyer or Mediation Advocate, or a friend. However, the parties must have the authority to make decisions which may be binding on them.

I am likely to have been instructed by one of the parties or a professional advisor such as a lawyer. Third parties (people not involved with the mediation) are not allowed to know the details of any conversations you have with me (your mediator) or the other party. I will not disclose anything without the prior written permission of all parties. This provides you with a substantive opportunity to explore thoughts, feelings, concerns, and frustrations in an open forum with each other without any other people knowing. 

Your mediation agreement takes the form of some key actions with dates and who is responsible for each action. This is not a legally binding agreement; however, enforcement of such agreements is not usually an issue. Parties tend to stick to the terms agreed because they have reached them of their own accord.

Your mediation agreement can be enforced through the Court by applying for a Consent Order. If all parties agree to this, you will need to instruct a lawyer to prepare and submit the application and paperwork.  

It is not necessary for lawyers to be in attendance at mediation. However, if you wish for your lawyer to be present, they can advise and support you throughout. Mediation is more successful where the parties engage fully and without their legal advisors speaking on their behalf. Finding a good balance between legal support and party engagement is paramount to the success of lawyer-attended mediations.

If you do not have a lawyer but would benefit from advocacy, we provide Mediation Advocates. The role of your Mediation Advocate is to support you and provide a voice where you may struggle if you are entirely on your own. Please talk to your mediator about this service.

If the issues cannot be resolved in mediation, the issue may require intervention by a third party such as using Expert Determination, Adjudication, or traditional litigation.

These other routes to resolve your issues are usually more expensive and time consuming and will likely result in a win-lose scenario for one or more parties. Mediation is the best way to agree mutual outcomes and achieve resolution.

If you believe that your legal rights are affected by any of the issues you are facing, you should seek legal or professional advice about your situation.

If you would like some assistance with dealing with the issues without resorting to formal processes and procedures, you can speak to your mediator about Conflict Coaching to help you self-manage the situation. 

How much does Mediation cost?

Mediation is a cost effective way to resolve issues between people. My fees are transparent and accord with the requirements of the Mediator Network Code of Excellence.

I charge a simple hourly rate of £75 per party. I am not VAT registered. The Mediation Fee includes up to three hours' preparation time, the mediation session, and case management. Additional hours where your matter is more complex or need more of my assistance will be charged at the same rate.

I can conduct your mediation remotely (by telephone or Zoom) or we can hold a face to face session. If we hold an in-person mediation there may be additional costs to consider such as travel and your venue.

A half day mediation would typically cost £525 per person (4 hour session plus three hours preparation).

A full day mediation would typically cost £1,050 per person (8 hour session plus three hours preparation).

If you have a small budget and need to talk about fees, please let me know.