What is mediation?

A mediation is about being able to have a constructive conversation, between two or more parties who disagree, or people who need to have a difficult conversation. It works because the mediator doesn't know the parties, so can remain neutral and impartial throughout. Mediators work with the parties before and during a mediation, listening to what's important to them and helping them to be in the best position to achieve what they want from mediation. It is not about winning or losing, it's about working collaboratively to agree on workable and sustainable outcomes for all parties involved.

What does a mediation typically cost?

For civil and commercial matters, I adhere to the Civil Mediation Council's Fixed Fee Scheme. This sets out fees for disputes up to a maximum of £50,000 and can be seen here. For disputes above this amount, please contact me and I will provide a quote.

For online workplace and employment disputes, I charge a half-day rate (up to 4 hours) at £500 and a full-day rate (up to 8 hours) at £1,000. 

Do you offer online and in-person mediations?

Yes, I do. There is a steady increase in demand for online mediation. I work with Zoom and find it works very well, whilst also helping to keep parties' costs to a minimum. For in-person mediations, I charge my travel at cost.

What is the process of mediation?

I have a separate page outlining the process which you can access here.

Do I need to have a solicitor attend the mediation with me?

No, not at all. For less complex disputes, parties often choose to represent themselves. Though as a mediator, I am a neutral party and cannot give you any legal advice before, during or after the mediation.

Can I force the other party to mediate?

No, mediation is a voluntary process, and people cannot be forced to attend. However, the courts are increasingly encouraging parties to engage with mediation before going to court. This means there may be financial penalties imposed if parties choose not to mediate before opting for litigation.

Why do I need to sign a mediation agreement?

Mediation is a process that requires a lot of trust. The mediation agreement is signed by all parties to the mediation, including the mediator. By signing, it confirms parties' commitment to the process, as well as their agreement to be legally bound by the rules.

Can you guarantee we will get an agreement on the day?

As a mediator, I cannot guarantee that parties will reach an agreement. However, what I can do is to help parties to get to the root issues behind the disputes and to help them to have respectful and productive conversations. The mediation process helps parties to gradually move away from their initial, fixed positions and move to a place where workable solutions can be talked through and agreed upon on the day. However, where parties don't reach agreement on the day, it is not uncommon for agreement to be reached a short time after the mediation has taken place.

Why should we book you as our mediator?

I am an empathetic, creative and pragmatic mediator, who helps parties to reach workable solutions which are sustainable for all involved. I have a good sense of humour, which I find is important in this role, and I will always work hard with and for parties to keep momentum going, highlight where parties align and help them to bridge differences, big or small. 

Are our conversations confidential?

Yes, absolutely. One of the key things about mediation is that the mediation itself is confidential and everything a party says to a mediator is confidential. As a mediator, I will not divulge anything you say unless you give express permission (there are certain exceptions; for example, if I was told something that was a safeguarding issue) and before the mediation, all parties will sign a mediation agreement.

What is your style of mediating?

I am a facilitative mediator, which means I help set parties up to have successful conversations. However, I won't give an opinion, or judge what solutions parties come up with, as I appreciate you will be best placed to decide upon what is a good outcome for you.