Wansbroughs has extensive experience representing clients in mediated negotiations and Tim Prees is an accredited Civil and Commercial Mediator.
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR). It is an alternative to having a dispute adjudicated by a Court. In a mediated negotiation meeting (or mediation), an independent neutral third party (the mediator) facilitates settlement discussions between the parties with a view to finding a mutually acceptable solution. The mediator does not advise the parties on the merits, or the law (that is the role of their legal advisors).
The mediator manages the process of the discussions and helps the parties to identify what they need to achieve and what matters most to them. The mediator does not make judgments or hear any evidence. The parties decide the outcome – which need not be limited to the issues pleaded in the court case.
The mediation process and everything said during it is private and completely confidential. It is only binding if it results in a settlement. In the majority of cases, mediation results in an agreed solution at a fraction of the cost of court proceedings. Reaching agreement takes away the risk of an unexpected outcome at court.
