In a Dispute? Consider Mediation

Almost any dispute can be resolved through mediation, ranging from substantial business to who keeps the pet when a relationship ends

Why do we argue?

Most of us would not choose to be in a dispute, yet often it is difficult to find a way around the problem without unpleasant argument. The issue is very important, often especially the principle. However, despite what is said, in fact most people do not want to “See you in Court”. Court can be expensive, stressful and time consuming; it can involve significant delay and the outcome is not as predictable as we would like.

“Mediation would be pointless”?

Although a dispute can seem intractable, and the other party so unreasonable that discussion face to face would be impossible and pointless, an independent third party can surprisingly often help a useful discussion to come about.

Why mediate?

Disputes over inheritance, business and family matters can be especially bitter, leaving relationships destroyed. Through mediation, often not only can these be resolved with less anxiety, time and cost, but sometimes those involved can regain trust which may have been lost through misunderstanding.

Courts are very restricted in the kind of outcomes they can order. Through mediation, parties can agree almost anything which suits them!

In summary, mediation offers:

• A better chance to have your say, and explain why you feel as you do
• Control of the outcome: a solution you have negotiated for yourself, and are comfortable with, rather than one forced upon you
• A solution which might seem fairer to you both than one the law might provide
• Privacy and confidentiality
• A faster, less expensive solution, incurring less time and stress
• The opportunity to regain mutual respect

If you are having difficulty resolving issues of any kind, whether personal or through business, why not contact us to see how we might help?

Vernon Hadida is a Mediator accredited by a leading international organisation (the “Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution”) and would be please to give you some preliminary advice, without charge, as to how mediation might help. By all means call him on 01689 822554, or email mediation@thomasdunton.co.uk

Family Mediation/Collaboration

When family relationships break down, everyone suffers. You may feel vulnerable and out of control. Expert legal help is needed to resolve complex problems that arise in relation to children, finances and pensions. Important decisions need to be made which affect you and your family for years to come.

Many people would prefer to resolve family problems round a table with their partner, instead of using the Court process. If so, you should consider Family Mediation or Collaboration.

Family Mediation provides a safe and confidential environment where you and your partner aim to find solutions to any issues with the assistance of a trained mediator. Animosity is kept to a minimum. Costs can be saved.

If you prefer to have the support of a solicitor in the meeting, then Family Collaboration could be the answer. You and your partner together with collaborative lawyers, sit round a table to find solutions to your problems.

Why choose Family Mediation/Collaboration?

• To keep animosity to a minimum
• To help you continue to parent your children together
• To enable you to stay in control of the process and the solution
• To provide an environment in which you and your partner can discuss issues in a confidential setting
• Tailor-made solutions to meet the needs of your family

We have a team of experienced Family Lawyers with specialists in Children, Finance and Pensions. Melanie Dunton is a Resolution trained Mediator and Collaborative Lawyer. Please contact us on 01689 822554 or email mediation@thomasdunton.co.uk

(This article is part of our Autumn 2010 Newsletter. You can download the entire document (PDF, 11MB) here)