The role of the mediator is simply to help the parties come together in a comfortable setting to achieve a solution of their own making. Mediation is entirely voluntary and either the client or the lawyer can withdraw from the mediation at any time. This fee mediation service is offered by the Law Society as an alternative and not a substitute for the formal taxation. The formal taxation process remains open to the parties. Any decisions resulting from fee mediation are not binding on the parties and the taxation process is available even after fee mediation.
Mediation is fast .
It can take place as soon as the parties and the mediator are available. Mediation is provided without fee to either the client or the lawyer. Mediation, if successful, produces an agreement in which both parties have participated - it is your solution and not one imposed by a third party. Mediation is more likely to preserve a good relationship with your lawyer, and in some cases may restore this relationship to the benefit of both of you. Mediation is flexible and informal and can be tailored to the circumstances and needs of the parties.