How Does Mediation Work?

Mediation brings the people in dispute to a meeting where they can discuss the issues, and explain to each other how the dispute is affecting them. The presence of a mediator helps to keep the focus on the issues and the discussion moving towards a solution. 

The aim of the meeting is to reach an agreement on how to resolve the dispute in a way that satisfies both parties. The dispute is described by the parties and the issues at stake are worked through in discussion to identify and consider possible solutions. 

Both parties must agree to take the dispute to mediation. If you appoint Pele Walker of People Mediation as mediator, she will set up and run the meeting, and help you to reach an agreement. As mediator, she remains impartial throughout the process, helps the parties to identify the issues and options for resolution and keeps the parties talking together in a positive and constructive way.

The meeting is confidential to encourage openness and trust. You can involve your lawyer, other support or come alone. 

If an agreement is reached, it may be written up as a legally binding document and is signed at the mediation meeting. On the other hand, parties may be content with having rebuilt a relationship or achieving a better understanding of the matters in dispute.

Usually both parties contribute equally to the costs of the mediation.

In the vast majority of cases, mediation will resolve at least part, if not all, of the dispute and thereby ease the tension that previously existed between the parties.

See People Mediation's Agreement to Mediate