What is Mediation?

Prior to commencing court proceedings, a dispute should be mediated if at all possible, in order to save significant expense and worry. Even if you do commence legal proceedings, a Court will require you to attempt to resolve the dispute at mediation before proceeding to a final hearing.

For mediation, a professional mediator is appointed by the parties to assist them in reaching a mutually beneficial outcome. Usually, the parties and their lawyers will meet and have the opportunity to express their sides of the dispute. Sometimes, they will then enter separate rooms and use the mediator's assistance to negotiate with each other until a resolution is reached. The mediator will not make a decision about what the outcome should be. Their role is an impartial one, intended to assist the parties in their negotiations.

In our experience, mediation can be a highly useful, efficient and cost effective way of resolving a dispute. Our customers are often very satisfied with the results that can be achieved, as the process allows the parties to make their own decisions about the outcome, rather than relying on the decision of a judge or arbitrator.

The information contained in this article is intended to be of a general nature only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Any legal matters should be discussed specifically with one of our lawyers.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

For further information contact  
Caroline Callegari

Caroline Callegari is an Associate Principal and leads our Disputes & Litigation team. She has an advisory and advocacy practice in the following areas: Commercial Litigation, corporate and personal disputes, debt recovery and, insolvency and bankruptcy matters. Caroline can be contacted on (03) 8561 3324 or by emailing caroline@sharrockpitman.com.au.

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For fifty years Sharrock Pitman Legal has made a significant and long term contribution to meeting the legal needs of business owners and residents in the City of Monash and greater Melbourne area.

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