Mediation as an alternative to litigation

As a firm which represents both employers and employees, we are always open minded about different ways to address difficulties in the working relationship.  Mediation offers an opportunity to save costs for both sides and achieve resolution effectively - without litigation.

Engaging in mediation can unlock disputes where there has been a breakdown in the working relationship either between managers and employees or between colleagues.  It can also offer an alternative way forward in intractable employee grievances.  

What is mediation?

Mediation is a collaborative process, aimed at resolving disputes in a constructive manner, with the assistance of an impartial mediator. A successful mediation allows parties to address with an approach which is not adversarial or bound by prescriptive process as court action often is.

Mediation is confidential and anything disclosed cannot be used in any subsequent legal proceedings.  It therefore allows parties to be honest about their interests with a view to reaching a solution which meets the needs of all.  The mediator acts as facilitator, encouraging open dialogue and greater mutual understanding.  In an employment context, especially where there may be an ongoing working relationship, mediation therefore offers a unique opportunity to resolve issues in a positive, creative and cost-effective way.

It can also be a speedy way to address issues- the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR) estimates that the overall success of commercial mediation is very high, with 93% of cases being resolved on the day or shortly afterwards.

Our independent employment mediator

We are delighted to offer independent employment mediation services through Cathy Donald, our director, who is a Core Mediation accredited mediator. First contact for these services often comes from HR representatives (whether internal or external to the company) and we are always happy to discuss the benefits and prospects of resolution via mediation.