Who’s fault is it really? – and does that matter when working on a solution?

When a dispute has arisen, emotions often run high, particularly in business cases where reputations and sometimes even livelihoods are at risk.  Those involved may be set on blaming each other.  It is perfectly human to blame others when we feel that a situation has gone wrong.  But if mediation is to be able to resolve the dispute then blame needs to be left out of the process.

Blame is more likely to escalate conflict than resolve it

Blaming people can make them feel defensive or angry.  It can cause them to shut down and try to remove themselves from a situation.  It is not a constructive emotion that opens the lines of communication – it rather entrenches positions and drives parties further apart.  However, in order to resolve disputes, all those involved need to be prepared to come together.  They need to bring issues into the open and settle them in a constructive way.

Blame assigns responsibility

By blaming others, we can remove ourselves from a situation.  We claim it was their fault, not ours.  But in order to resolve disputes, all parties need to be open to accepting some share of responsibility. They need to take joint ownership of resolving the situation.

Blame does not change the facts of the situation

Blaming the other person or parties involved might make you feel better in the short term.  But in the long term, it does nothing to address the situation and move the conflict resolution forward.  Whilst you may not want to accept you had a part to play in causing a dispute, you will want to resolve it without ending up in a costly and time-consuming court battle.

Choosing to leave blame at the meeting room door can enable all parties to move forwards.

Removing blame from dispute resolution should help ensure a more positive outcome and it may also preserve goodwill.  It can enable those involved to come to an agreement where all parties win.  This can be vital if there are to be continued dealings between the parties.

As an experienced and innovative Mediator, accredited in Business Mediation for Commercial and Residential Property, Construction, Business and Commerce, Retail, Restaurant, Healthcare, Franchising, and financial related disputes I can help.

With over 33 years’ experience as a property solicitor I am fully versed in the legal framework of property and business disputes, and passionate that mediation provides a fresh approach, with a 75% success rate.

To find out more about my mediation services please call 07776 141 717, email roger@rogerlevittmediation.co.uk or check out my website at www.rogerlevittmediation.co.uk.