Much of our work involves conducting litigation and arbitration on behalf of clients. However, in many cases, it is necessary to consider alternative methods of dispute resolution including negotiation and Mediation.

Mediation is a 'voluntary, non-binding, "without prejudice" method of resolving disputes' or “facilitated negotiation”. It is an alternative to litigation or Arbitration as well as a tool which can be used in conjunction with either.  It has a high success rate - up to 80% of cases referred to mediation settle either on the day or shortly afterwards – and it is particularly suited to claims where there is an ongoing relationship between the parties.

Mediations are held in private and everything which passes between the parties and the Mediator is confidential and non-binding.  However, any written Settlement Agreement which the parties enter into will be binding and can be enforced through the courts.  Even when settlement is not achieved, mediation almost always results in benefits such as the reduction of issues in dispute and can result in a substantial costs saving. 

We have experience of mediation both as advocates for the parties and as mediator in a variety of commercial disputes and Personal Injury & Professional Negligence claims.  We can advise on suitability, timing and the likely cost of mediating a claim and are in contact with a number of major mediation providers.

Jane Ward is an accredited member of ADR Net and a practising Mediator. Jane Ward, Charles Patterson and Serena Grainger have also acted as Mediators in small claims mediations in the Plymouth Courts.