Mediation is flexible and whilst it is preferable to arrange a joint meeting between the disputing parties, mediation is still possible by other means.

 Standard Process           
If one party contacts us, we will then contact the other party or parties to explain the situation and ask for their agreement to pursue mediation as a means of exploring a mutually acceptable solution. As a first stage the Mediator will obtain full details of the dispute from each party

A joint meeting chaired by the Mediator is then arranged using the following guideline, although the parties themselves can propose any alternative process.

• At the start of the mediation, the Mediator will either meet each party separately or jointly to explain and agree some basic rules
• The parties will then meet in the presence of the Mediator and each party will be given the opportunity to fully explain the problem and the issues from their viewpoint.
• The parties will then separate in order to consider each others points of view.
• The Mediator will then assist the parties to fully understand what has been said and identify any new issues.
• The Mediator will then act as a point of communication between the parties in order to enable each party to provide their further thoughts or comments and to chair any further joint meetings as may be required.
• The aim being to identify and successfully resolve all the issues to the satisfaction of each party
• A Settlement Agreement is then normally prepared and signed by the parties, which can be legally binding if the parties so wish.

Alternative Process           
Whilst it has been found that a meeting between the parties with the assistance of a Mediator leads to an increased understanding of all the issues, if a party has concerns for whatever reason about attending a joint meeting, then it is still possible to pursue mediation. In this situation the usual process is as follows

• After the Mediator has obtained details of the problem or issues in dispute from each party, the Mediator will then visit each party in turn to ensure that they fully understand the issues being raised by the other party
• Each party will then use the Mediator as a means of communicating to the other party, their further thoughts and possible solutions
• The aim is then to find a solution or reach an agreement by a process of dialogue via the Mediator
• This process can be lengthier than a process of a joint meeting(s) and it is thus not ideal if a solution is required urgently as is often the case.
• A Settlement Agreement is then prepared and signed by the parties which can be legally binding if the parties so choose

e-mail: info@choose-mediation.co.uk

For a no obligation
and confidential initial discussion, please contact us on:
01202 421937
and ask for either
Chris Palmer or
Michelle Palmer

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Chris Palmer

Michelle Palmer