Mediation is a process where an impartial mediator helps people in dispute communicate, discuss their concerns and explore possible solutions. Here is what to expect at each stage.
You contact Concord Mediation with a brief outline of your enquiry.
We'll discuss whether mediation may be suitable and what the next steps could involve.
If everyone agrees to participate and mediation is appropriate, we'll discuss the process, practical arrangements and the agreement to mediate.
During mediation, everyone has an opportunity to explain their perspective, discuss the issues and explore possible solutions.
Some discussions may take place together, while others may happen separately, depending on the circumstances.
If an agreement is reached, the parties can consider how to record it and whether independent legal advice is needed.
Not every mediation ends in agreement. Sometimes the process itself helps people better understand the issues or narrow down their differences.
Mediation is generally voluntary. The mediator cannot force anyone to agree to a settlement.
The mediator does not take sides and does not decide who is right or wrong.
Mediation is generally confidential, although there are legal exceptions. The confidentiality arrangements will be explained before mediation begins.
The parties remain in control of whether they reach an agreement.
The mediator does not act as a legal adviser to either party. Parties may wish to obtain independent legal advice at any stage.
Mediation is a process where an impartial mediator helps people in dispute communicate, discuss their concerns and explore possible solutions.
The mediator doesn't decide who's right or wrong, and the parties remain in control of whether they reach an agreement.
No. In court, a judge determines the legal dispute. In mediation, the parties have an opportunity to work towards their own agreement with the help of an impartial mediator.
Mediation is generally confidential, although there are legal exceptions. The confidentiality arrangements will be explained before mediation begins.
An agreement isn't guaranteed. If mediation doesn't resolve the dispute, the parties may still have other options available to them, including legal proceedings where appropriate.
Legal advisers can be involved where appropriate and agreed as part of the arrangements. Parties may also wish to obtain independent legal advice.
That depends on the circumstances, the terms of the agreement and the applicable law. Parties should consider obtaining independent legal advice before signing any settlement agreement.
Mediation is generally voluntary. Although a court may encourage mediation or make relevant procedural orders, the mediator cannot force anyone to agree to a settlement.
That depends on the nature and complexity of the dispute, the number of people involved and the issues being discussed. Practical arrangements can be considered during the initial enquiry.
Concord Mediation offers mediation for certain family relationship disputes, such as disagreements between adult siblings and other adult family members.
I do not currently offer mediation for separating or divorcing couples, related parenting arrangements or specialist elder mediation.
No. When acting as a mediator, my role is impartial and separate from my work as a Legal Executive. I do not act as a legal adviser to either party in the mediation process.
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