Between them, our mediators have mediated thousands of civil and commercial disputes covering a wide range of subject matters. Our mediators are experts at what they do and come from a range of legal and non-legal backgrounds and disciplines which allows our clients a wide choice of experts to assist them in the speedy resolution of their dispute or the negotiation of a new deal. They are all experienced in challenging parties to evaluate their positions and risk assess possible outcomes.
Mediation brings an element of control back to the parties who can decide whether or not to accept the negotiated settlement before them. The settlement can take into account provisions or terms that a Court would be unable to award. For example, the parties could decide to agree, as a term of their settlement, a new contractual relationship in lieu of the payment of damages or similar. This is particularly valuable in situations where, for example, there is a relationship that the parties want to continue.
Many of the parties that come to us have been caught up in their dispute for months, if not years, costing them valuable time and resources which could be much better spent elsewhere.
Increasing court and legal costs mean that parties are unwilling to try their luck at trial where the shape and terms of the outcome are out of their hands. Mediation offers parties a cost-effective, confidential method by which an independent third-party neutral helps the parties reach a form and shape of settlement that all parties can live with.
With decades of experience between them, there isn't a case our mediators can't handle
The civil and commercial Courts continue to aim to make trial “a last resort” and impose financial penalties for those who don’t make efforts to settle their disagreements before trial, whether by mediation or another form of ADR. Courts have the power to order parties to mediation - even where they are reluctant participants.
Yes, mediation can be used at any stage of a dispute — including before any formal court or tribunal proceedings have been issued. In fact, many parties choose to mediate at an early stage precisely to avoid the cost, time, and stress of litigation altogether. There is no requirement that proceedings be underway or even contemplated for mediation to be a valid and effective option. Pre-action mediation can help parties reach a binding settlement, preserve relationships, and maintain greater control over the outcome than they would have through the courts.
No, you do not need a lawyer to use mediation. Mediation is designed to be accessible, and parties can participate directly without legal representation. The mediator's role is to facilitate discussion and help parties reach their own agreement — not to provide legal advice — so the process can work perfectly well without lawyers present.
That said, having a lawyer can be beneficial in more complex disputes, particularly where significant legal rights or financial interests are at stake. A lawyer can help you prepare for mediation, advise you on the strength of your position, and review any settlement agreement before you sign it. Some parties choose a middle ground, consulting a lawyer before and after the mediation session without having them present in the room.
Ultimately, whether to involve a lawyer is a personal decision that will depend on the nature and complexity of your dispute, your comfort with the process, and the other party's approach.
Explore individual mediators below or contact us to discuss the best mediator for your dispute.
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