Alternative Dispute Resolution

Mediation & Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Mediation is a method of dispute resolution which provides an alternative to litigation. It is a formalised process that helps individuals, businesses and organisations find cooperative ways to manage differences and to deal with conflicts and disputes. It provides an opportunity for the parties involved in a dispute to communicate with each other in a safe and confidential environment, identifying mutual agreements and restoring respectful, professional, business, working or personal relationships.  It can take various forms, but the common factor in all mediations is that throughout the various stages of the mediation process, the mediator remains impartial and does not make a judgment.

In recent times the commercial court has encouraged the use of mediation by directing the parties to a dispute to look for a resolution either before litigation proceedings or during the course of the case.  The benefits of mediation over the traditional litigation process include:

  • Speed – it is quicker than the litigation process
  • Cost effective - generally less expense than litigation
  • Control  - parties retain control over process and outcome
  • Confidential - offers privacy and confidentiality
  • Flexible – tailor-made solutions
  • Communication - facilitates preservation of relationship

Mediation & ADR  group

Our experienced specialists are drawn from our litigation, employment law, property and private client departments. Each professional has practical experience of acting as the independent arbitrator or mediator of disputes between individuals, businesses and organisations on a variety of issues.

Mediation & ADR services

  • Commercial mediation - breach of contract disputes; director/shareholder disputes; developer/contractor disputes ; construction contract disputes ; partnership disputes; insurance disputes; landlord and tenant issues; intellectual property disputes ; family disputes involving bequests, wills, ownership of land or businesses; property and boundary disputes; professional negligence.
  • Workplace mediation - to help resolve issues over: restructuring and reorganization; promotion; remuneration; bullying, harassment, sexual harassment; absence from work and return to work; pension arrangements; industrial relations; equal pay issues; equality and discrimination; health and safety.
  • Organisational conflict - to resolve disputes in organisations such as schools, colleges, sporting bodies, charities, public sector bodies, clubs, trade unions and in any similar type organisation.