CEDR Member
Benefits in this section:
  • 5% discount on Select mediation service
  • Free employment management dispute service

Mediation

CEDR's definition of mediation

"Mediation is a flexible process conducted confidentially in which a neutral person actively assists parties in working towards a negotiated agreement of a dispute or difference, with the parties in ultimate control of the decision to settle and the terms of resolution."

  • Mediation is voluntary, but refusal to mediate can give rise to cost sanctions.
  • Courts actively encourage parties to consider mediation.
  • Mediation is confidential and 'without prejudice' (nothing said in the mediation is admissible as evidence in legal proceedings).
  • Any settlement reached is binding once put into writing and signed by the parties.

Mediation has a number of advantages over litigation processes:

  • Successful - over 70 per cent of cases referred to CEDR Solve settle.
  • Quick - most mediations are arranged within a few weeks (and can be arranged even more quickly) and the formal mediation session usually lasts for one or two days only.
  • Cost effective - compared with litigation processes, mediation is a less expensive route to resolving disputes.
  • Gives parties control over the process and the outcome.
  • Mediation can run alongside litigation or you may prefer to put the litigation process 'on hold' while you mediate.
  • Mediation can maintain business relationships far more effectively than litigation.
  • A wide variety of settlement options can be achieved in mediation over and above monetary settlements.
  • Informal and flexible - the process to suit our clients' needs.

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