About Mediation
Most mediations proceed as follows:
1: Mediator’s opening statement.
The mediator introduces the mediation, explains the goals and rules of the mediation, and encourages each of you to work cooperatively toward a settlement.
2. The opening statements of the parties.
Each of you is invited to describe the dispute and its consequences, financial and otherwise.
3: Private sessions.
The private session is where you meet privately with the mediator.
The mediator will go between the two private rooms or video rooms to discuss the issues and possible solutions.
The mediator continues the exchange as needed during the time allowed.
The mediator will only discuss matters you have permitted to discuss.
These private sessions are the key part of mediation.
4: Joint negotiation.
After private sessions, the mediator may bring the parties together if requested and both parties agree.
5: Closure.
If the parties reach an agreement, the mediator will put the main provisions in writing and ask each side to sign the written summary of the agreement.
If the parties do not reach an agreement, the mediator will help the parties determine whether it would be fruitful to meet again later or continue negotiations by telephone.
It may be that some issues are resolved and some decisions are made on how to manage other issues, and they can be agreed upon in writing to reduce and reframe the issues between the parties.
All aspects of the mediation are confidential.
Advantages of Mediation
Timetabled to suit your work, family and personal commitments
Fixed Fee
No waiting lists
Informal, easy process
Strictly confidential
Deal with one person throughout
People involved decide what is discussed
Both parties can gain something
Does not require legal representation, though legal advice can be helpful
People involved make their agreement, which can be made legally binding