Mediation is when people involved in a dispute or disagreement meet together with an independent Third Party- the Mediator, to work through the issues within the dispute, and to attempt to arrive at a resolution that works for both ‘sides’.
Mediation can work for:
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- separating couples
- family members in dispute
- neighbours or members of a community where problems have arisen.
Mediation is a voluntary process, which means it only happens if both sides are willing to sit down to try to resolve the issue between them. It is a private and confidential process, and the mediator is impartial. Within mediation, the outcome is a decision or series of decisions that the people in dispute arrive at themselves, for mutual benefit. And because it’s a solution that they both arrive at, it takes into account all of the things that matter to them both, and is far more likely to work for the long term.
Mediation can also be far more cost effective and timely than court proceedings.
How do I begin mediation?
Both ‘sides’ in a dispute need to agree to attend mediation before it can begin. This can be done by both people separately getting in touch to confirm with me that you would like to go ahead with mediation. We can then set up our first meeting together.
How does it work?
Over a structured series of meetings with both ‘sides’ in dispute, I will guide you through the issues that need to be dealt with, and through dialogue and discussion, we’ll try to create and explore options that enable you to resolve whatever issues are in dispute. They may be single issues, or more complex problems. If resolution is reached, an agreement will be signed at the end of the process (a ‘Mediated Settlement’) to reflect this.
How long does it take?
Every case is very different. Some cases are single issues, some are more complex, and people need different timescales to work through the issues.
Get in touch and I’ll discuss this with you in detail once I know a little more about how I can help.
How much does it cost?
Costs are based on an hourly rate so, it depends on the nature of the dispute.
Get in touch and once I have an idea of what I can help with, I can give you a clear outline of fees and payment options.
Where and when does mediation take place?
Currently we are able to offer mediation via zoom. Face to face meetings are also available in Kinsale.
We know that with work and family commitments, it might be difficult to set aside time in the working week to meet, so we do try to work around you and offer some limited evening and Saturday morning appointments, as well as appointments Monday to Friday.
I’m separating from my spouse- do I still need a solicitor?
This is up to you, but many mediators work in conjunction with solicitors/ legal advisers. Mediators can’t give you legal advice or explain the law, so many separating couples find it important and of value to have independent legal advice.