Frequently asked questions

Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process in which an independent mediator helps the people involved in a dispute to communicate, negotiate and explore possible solutions.

The mediator does not impose a judgment or decide the dispute.

No. The mediator's role is not to decide who is right or wrong, but to run a fair, balanced and confidential process that allows the parties to make their own decisions.

Yes. Confidentiality is a fundamental feature of mediation, subject to the applicable agreement, law and professional obligations. The specific arrangements are explained to the parties before the mediation begins.

We mediate civil and commercial, workplace, business and partnership, property and construction, and international disputes, both before and during litigation. If you are unsure whether your dispute is suitable, please contact us. See Services for more detail.

No. The mediator does not act as a legal representative for any party and does not give legal advice. Parties may wish to take independent legal advice on their own circumstances and on any proposed settlement.

Mediation can be an effective alternative to prolonged and costly disputes. It gives the parties the opportunity to be heard, to identify the real issues, to explore practical solutions and, where possible, to reach an agreement while preserving important professional or personal relationships.

Yes. Mediation is voluntary. Once all parties agree to mediate, the mediator can be appointed and a date and format agreed.

The mediation normally begins with an introduction and an explanation of the process. Each party may then explain their perspective before the mediator facilitates discussion and negotiation.

Depending on the circumstances, the mediator may meet the parties together, separately in private sessions, or both.

Not necessarily. The mediator can hold private sessions with each party separately, and mediation can also take place online, in which case nobody needs to travel to a venue.

The parties may provide relevant information or documents before the mediation. This helps the mediator understand the background, so that the day can focus on the key issues.

The terms can be recorded in an appropriate form. You may wish to take independent legal advice on any proposed settlement.

The parties keep their rights and remain free to pursue any other options available to them.

Yes. Mediation can take place before proceedings are issued, during litigation or at any other appropriate stage. It can help the parties narrow the issues, reduce costs and explore settlement without waiting for a final decision from a court or tribunal.

Yes. We deal with enquiries from individuals and organisations directly, and from solicitors, legal representatives and other professional advisers acting for them. Please let us know when you contact us if advisers are involved.

The mediation is held by secure video conference, so the parties do not need to travel to a venue. Once arrangements are confirmed, each participant receives the relevant information and joining details. See Online mediation for more detail.

Yes. Depending on the circumstances, mediation may take place in person, online, or through a combination of the two. The appropriate format depends on the dispute, the parties and practical considerations.

Yes. Where the parties are in different jurisdictions, mediation offers a flexible forum for confidential negotiation. Please let us know if the parties are in different countries or time zones.

Email us at contact@mediationuk.online or use the request form. We will explain the process, discuss the practical arrangements and answer any initial questions.

It helps to include:

• A brief description of the dispute
• The number of parties involved
• Whether legal proceedings have started
• Whether lawyers or other advisers are involved
• Any important deadlines
• Your preferred dates for mediation
• Whether the parties are in different countries or time zones

Please do not send highly sensitive or confidential documents by ordinary email until appropriate arrangements have been confirmed.

We deal with enquiries from individuals, businesses, solicitors and other legal representatives, employers and employees, organisations and professional advisers, in both domestic and international disputes.