RESOURCES

Mediation Resources & Information

Clear, practical information to help you understand mediation, prepare for a dispute and decide what your next step may be.

Understanding Mediation

Considering mediation for a family, commercial or workplace dispute? Our practical guide explains what mediation is, what the mediator does, how the process works and what you can expect before getting started.

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Family Mediation

Information about separation, child arrangements, financial matters and the family mediation process.

Civil & Commercial Mediation

Guidance on commercial disputes, contracts, property, inheritance and the mediation process.

Workplace Mediation

Practical information for employers, managers and employees dealing with workplace conflict.

Your Mediation Journey

We consider whether mediation appears suitable and explain what happens next.

The participants and mediator prepare for the mediation, including identifying the issues that need to be addressed and agreeing practical arrangements.

Participants have an opportunity to discuss the issues, consider different perspectives and explore possible options with the mediator’s assistance.

Where participants reach agreement, the outcome and appropriate next steps can be considered.

What Does a Mediator Do?

The Mediator

Facilitates

Helps participants communicate constructively.

Clarifies

Helps identify the issues that need to be addressed.

Explores

Encourages participants to consider options and possible solutions.

Remains Impartial

Does not take sides or represent one participant against another.

Supports the Process

Encourages participants to consider options and possible solutions.Helps maintain a structured and respectful discussion.

The Mediator Does Not

Make the Decision

The mediator does not decide the outcome for the participants.

Act as One Party's Solicitor

The mediator does not represent one participant against another.

Force an Agreement

Participants decide whether they are willing to agree.

Guarantee a Result

Mediation cannot guarantee that a dispute will be resolved.

What Happens Before Mediation?

Good preparation can make mediation more effective. Before the session, the mediator will explain the process and consider whether mediation is appropriate in the circumstances.

Initial Contact

We gather basic information about the dispute.

Suitability

We consider whether mediation appears appropriate.

Practical Arrangements

We discuss participants, timing, location and other arrangements.

Preparation

Participants have an opportunity to prepare for the issues they want to discuss.

What Happens During a Mediation Session?

The mediator explains the process, confirms the ground rules and ensures everyone understands their role.

Participants’ Perspectives

Each participant has an opportunity to explain the issues from their perspective.

Identifying the Issues

The mediator helps identify the matters that need to be resolved.

Exploring Options

Participants discuss possible ways forward and consider different options.

Working Towards Agreement

Where possible, the participants develop practical proposals that they are prepared to consider.

What Happens After Mediation?

If agreement is reached

Where participants reach agreement, the outcome can be documented in an appropriate form and the participants can consider any further steps they may need to take.

If only some issues are resolved

It may be possible to record the areas of agreement while identifying the issues that remain outstanding.

If no agreement is reached

Mediation is not guaranteed to produce an agreement. Participants can consider their other options and, where appropriate, obtain independent legal advice about what to do next.

Is Mediation Right for Everyone?

Mediation is not suitable for every dispute or every participant.

The suitability of mediation can depend on factors such as the nature of the dispute, willingness to participate, safety concerns, significant power imbalances and whether meaningful communication is realistically possible.

An initial assessment can help determine whether mediation appears appropriate and whether any additional arrangements may be needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mediation voluntary?

Mediation is generally a consensual process, although some legal contexts may have specific requirements relating to mediation or MIAMs.

Does the mediator decide who is right?

No. The mediator facilitates the process and does not decide the outcome.

What if we cannot agree?

You can consider what other options may be available to you and, where appropriate, obtain independent legal advice.

Can I have a solicitor during mediation?

Participants can obtain independent legal advice alongside mediation. The mediator, however, remains separate and impartial.

How long does mediation take?

This depends on the complexity of the dispute, the participants and the number of issues involved.

Does mediation always take place in one session?

Not necessarily. The arrangements depend on the nature and circumstances of the mediation.

Is mediation confidential?

Mediation is intended to provide a private environment for discussion, subject to the applicable legal and professional framework.

How do I start?

Contact PLB Mediation Services to discuss your circumstances and the next appropriate step.

Ready to Find Out Whether Mediation Is Right for You?

Speak to PLB Mediation Services to discuss your circumstances and understand the next step.