When trying to select the right mediator for your dispute, it can be difficult to decide. What should you look for? How can you determine the mediator’s reputation and history of success? Often, a good mediation result lies in the personal qualities of the mediator.
Mediators are experts in many things: listening, easing tensions, reconciliation, and communication. The mediator must be a paragon of objectivity and impartiality. While he or she may ultimately have an opinion with regard to the merits of each side’s case, the mediator must approach those opinions with the utmost objectivity and recognise that both sides of the matter have merit for the individuals involved.
Once all parties agree to mediate, choose a mediator and schedule the date, the question then arises: “What will happen on the day of mediation”? Unlike a trial, mediation is an informal process that takes place at a neutral site, often the mediator’s office suite.
Although mediation has been available to litigants in the UK for decades, it has seen a rise in popularity in the last 18 months. Part of the reason for this has been due to the recession and the need to save money and time. But the reasons for its popularity go much further.
