Time is limited to eg a day. The session usually starts with an open meeting followed by more private meetings where the parties can discuss the issues more freely with the mediator. The mediator is non-judgmental and is bound by confidentiality not to disclose any information to the other party unless he is authorised to do so. The mediator is trained to 'tease out' the real issues in the dispute and to help the parties to explore settlement possibilities. The aim of the mediation is to settle the dispute and to record the terms of settlement in writing to be signed by both parties.
Mediation is quick and inexpensive compared with litigation.
It has been used successfully in very large cases as you may have read in the press recently, saving hundreds of thousands of pounds in legal costs. Should you require any further information about mediation, please contact Nick at our Gerrards Cross office. This firm is regulated by the Law Society in the conduct of investment business. Cross Buckinghamshire SL9 8EL UK tel .