Civil Mediation
Mediation gives people in a dispute a structured opportunity to discuss a settlement with the help of an impartial mediator. It can be considered before a court claim or while proceedings are underway. Contact us to discuss whether mediation may be suitable and what arranging it would involve.
- An impartial mediator
- A say in the outcome
- Room to discuss options
- Preparation explained
What civil mediation involves
In mediation, the parties work towards an agreement with help from someone who is independent of the dispute. The mediator manages the discussion, helps identify the issues and explores whether there is a basis for settlement.
The mediator does not decide who is right, give a judgment or impose a result. Their role is different from a lawyer acting for one party. If you need advice about your own legal rights or whether to accept proposed terms, that should come from your own adviser.
When mediation may help
- Disagreements about contracts or payment
- Property and neighbour disputes
- Disputes involving landlords and tenants
- Business disagreements where a negotiated outcome may be possible
Suitability depends on the circumstances and the people involved. Tell us about any concern that could affect participation, including communication needs or an imbalance between the parties. We can discuss the proposed arrangements before a session is agreed.
Preparing for the meeting
Useful preparation starts with a short account of the disagreement, the main documents and the outcome each party would like to achieve. It can help to identify which points are essential and where there may be room for discussion.
We can explain what information is requested for the proposed mediation and how practical arrangements will be agreed. If you are enquiring on behalf of a business, consider who has authority to make decisions or approve a settlement. That person may need to attend or be available during the meeting.
During and after mediation
The format is agreed for the particular dispute. Discussions may involve everyone together, separate conversations with the mediator or a combination of both. The process is generally private and confidential, subject to the mediation agreement and any applicable legal exceptions.
If terms are agreed, they need to be recorded clearly. A signed settlement agreement in a civil dispute can be legally binding. Take advice on the wording and its effect before signing. If proceedings are already underway, additional steps may be needed to give effect to the agreement within the case.
If no agreement is reached, the dispute remains unresolved. The parties can consider further discussion or other available steps. Taking part in mediation does not itself pause a court timetable or extend a time limit.
Your questions answered
Do both sides need to participate?
Mediation needs participation from the parties if it is to produce an agreed settlement. Courts can require parties to take part in a dispute resolution process in appropriate cases, but the mediator does not force them to settle. Tell us whether mediation has been suggested voluntarily or directed within proceedings.
Can the same person advise me and act as mediator?
The roles are different. A mediator must be impartial and cannot act as your personal legal adviser in the same dispute. We check the proposed appointment and any previous involvement before accepting it. If you want advice as a party, make that clear when you contact us.
Do we have to meet face to face?
The arrangements depend on the dispute and what is suitable for the participants. Separate discussions or an online format may be considered. Tell us about your location, availability and any concerns about meeting the other party so these can be discussed before arrangements are confirmed.
How much does mediation cost?
The fee depends on the proposed session, preparation and complexity. Ask for a quote that explains what is included and how payment will be shared or arranged. We will need a short outline of the dispute and the number of parties before confirming the scope.
What should I put in the first enquiry?
Give a brief summary of the disagreement, the names of the parties and whether court proceedings have started. Mention any hearing or other deadline. Avoid sending confidential settlement proposals in the initial form. We will explain how information should be provided once the proposed role is clear.
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