Resources & Process

Knowledge, insights and support for conflict resolution.

Mediation works best when people understand the process and feel prepared. Here you’ll find practical guidance, real-world insights, and resources to help you navigate disputes with confidence — whether you are considering mediation, currently in process, or simply curious about how conflict resolution works.

This space is designed to be genuinely useful. Some content answers immediate questions; other pieces offer deeper exploration of the principles and practices that make mediation effective.

A typical mediation flow

Seven stages, one calm path forward.

Mediation is flexible — every dispute moves at its own pace. The stages below give a clear sense of what to expect from first conversation to follow-up.

Agreeing to Mediate

The decision to mediate can be made before or after the conflict arises.

Preparations

Both parties must have the authority and willingness to negotiate and compromise to achieve effective mediation.

Conducting Sessions

Mediation is a flexible process. There can be open sessions, private sessions and joint sessions — taking into account safeguarding requirements and participant preferences.

Communicate

Participants work collaboratively to share what matters and reach an agreement.

Negotiate

It’s up to the mediator to ensure that both sides are heard and that there is ample opportunity to work towards a solution.

Closing

The parties come to an agreement and the resolution is placed in writing. Once the document is signed it becomes binding on all parties.

Follow-up

Post-mediation support can involve checking in with parties to ensure effective implementation and a lasting resolution.

Mediation FAQs

Everything you need to know.

Common questions about how mediation works, what it costs, and what happens next.

Mediation brings all parties together in a confidential setting with a neutral mediator who facilitates constructive dialogue. I guide structured discussions to help you explore options, clarify interests, and reach mutually acceptable solutions that work for everyone involved.

Mediation is faster, more cost-effective, and less stressful than going to court. You maintain control over the outcome, preserve relationships, and typically resolve disputes in days or weeks rather than months or years — all while keeping the process confidential.

The mediation process itself is voluntary and non-binding. However, any agreement you reach can be made legally binding if both parties choose to formalise it into a written, enforceable contract.

No, lawyers aren’t required. Many people mediate without legal representation and reach successful agreements. However, you’re welcome to bring a lawyer if you prefer, and some people find it helpful for complex commercial or legal matters. I work effectively with both parties and their counsel when present.

Most mediations resolve in a single session (typically 3–6 hours) or within a few days across multiple sessions. This is significantly faster than litigation, which can take months or even years to reach a conclusion.

If you don’t reach full agreement, you still have options. Sometimes partial agreements help narrow disputes and reduce litigation costs. The mediation process is voluntary, so you’re free to pursue other resolution methods if needed. However, most disputes (70–80%) do settle successfully through mediation.

I work on a transparent fixed-fee basis as part of the Civil Mediation Council’s Fixed Fee Scheme. Costs depend on the complexity and type of dispute. For most cases, mediation costs a fraction of what litigation does — often saving thousands in legal fees. Contact me for a free consultation to discuss your specific situation and costs.

From the blog