Break Free of High-Stakes Disputes With Mediation

Yes, a successful mediation ends with a signed Settlement Agreement that’s legally binding and enforceable in court, but is confidential to the outside world and still keeps you in full control of the terms. For early-stage projects, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and an agreed governance process sets clear expectations for collaboration and fast resolution of escalated issues for the rest of the venture.

Mediation is voluntary, but is increasingly being ordered by judges as an efficient alternative to lengthy legal battles. Courts in the UK and many European jurisdictions expect parties to genuinely consider alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation before a case escalates into court. If a party refuses mediation without a clear reason, a judge may take that into account later - particularly when dealing with conduct and costs.

You don't have to have a lawyer to mediate, but you are encouraged to take independent legal advice on your situation. Mediation is designed to be fast and accessible. It avoids lengthy legal sparring and focuses on practical dialogue and settlement terms – including wider commercial or personal issues that a court might not deal with. Lawyers typically advise their clients before and during the mediation - and will always draft settlement terms. As mediators we don’t give legal advice or act for either party. What we do is work with you (and your lawyers, if appointed) to explore the risks on each side – including likely costs and timescales if the dispute were to continue into formal legal proceedings – so you can make informed decisions about settlement.

We can start within days, once both parties agree and sign the mediation agreement. At least one call will be scheduled separately with each party to review the key issues and collect a shared bundle of information for the mediator's review, ensuring a more constructive day.

Over 75% of mediations settle on the day, but if more time is needed, we offer a flexible, pre-agreed extension on an hourly basis. This ensures you can continue progressing final negotiations without pressure, while keeping control of time and cost.

Yes - mediation is confidential, and what is said between parties cannot be used in court. Settlement Agreements are also confidential, with only the necessary terms disclosed to judges in the rare event of enforcement by the courts. Any offers, admissions or concessions made during the mediation are made 'Without Prejudice' to any future legal proceedings, if the mediation were to be unsuccessful.

There are considerations for both, and your decision depends on the status of negotiation, the current relationship between the parties, meeting logistics, as well as the time-sensitivity of finding resolutions. Sometimes a mediation, whether online or in person, may involve only private, confidential meetings between the mediator and each party. Sometimes joint sessions (consented to by the parties) can move things forward productively - all within the safety net of confidentiality that wraps the whole process. Mediation is flexible to suit the precise needs of each case.

• Joint Venture Projects
• Live Constructions & Development Projects
• Co-Founder, Shareholder & Investor Agreements and Exits
• International and Cross-Border Partnerships
• Public-Private Partnerships and Projects
• NGO, Charity, and Community Partnerships

If you are unsure your situation is captured here, we may still be able to help. Schedule a complimentary call with us now.

Mediation can be used before, during, or at the end of a project, partnership or joint venture.

• Before – To clarify expectations and prevent future disputes on a venture or project.
• During – To address misalignment or growing tensions.
• At the end – To negotiate a fair exit or dissolution.

Courts are increasingly encouraging the use of negotiations through mediation.