CIVIL AND COMMERCIAL MEDIATION

Resolve Commercial & Civil Disputes Constructively

Commercial and civil disputes can disrupt businesses, relationships, property arrangements and financial plans. PLB Mediation Services provides a structured, impartial process that gives participants an opportunity to address the issues in dispute and explore practical solutions without immediately resorting to court proceedings.

A Practical Approach to Civil & Commercial Disputes

Business and civil disputes can become expensive and disruptive when they continue unresolved. They can affect cash flow, commercial relationships, property interests, professional reputation and the ability of organisations to move forward.

Mediation provides a structured setting in which participants can address the issues directly with the assistance of an impartial mediator.

Rather than asking a court to determine the outcome, participants can explore the underlying issues, consider options and work towards solutions that they are prepared to accept.

At PLB Mediation Services, our mediator’s role is to facilitate the process impartially. We do not act as an advocate for one participant against another.

Why Consider Mediation for a Civil or Commercial Dispute?

01 — Protect Business Relationships

Where parties have an ongoing commercial relationship, mediation can provide an opportunity to address difficult issues without unnecessarily damaging that relationship.

02 — Focus on Practical Outcomes

Mediation allows participants to explore practical solutions that may not be available through a straightforward court judgment.

03 — Maintain Greater Control

Participants remain involved in the decision-making process rather than handing the outcome entirely to a court.

04 — Reduce Disruption

A structured mediation process may help parties address a dispute without the time and disruption associated with prolonged proceedings.

How Civil & Commercial Mediation Works

Contact our team to provide a general overview of the dispute and identify the people or organisations involved.

We consider whether mediation appears appropriate and explain the process, practical arrangements and next steps.

Participants have an opportunity to explain their concerns, identify the issues in dispute and hear the other perspective.

The mediator facilitates discussion and helps participants explore potential ways forward.

Where an agreement is reached, the participants can consider the appropriate way to record and implement what has been agreed.

Who Uses Civil & Commercial Mediation?

For disputes affecting commercial relationships, contracts or business interests.

For disputes involving customers, suppliers, contractors or other businesses.

For disagreements relating to property, occupation or contractual obligations.

For boundary, access or property-related disputes.

For inheritance, estate and probate disputes.

Is Mediation Right for Your Dispute?

Mediation is voluntary and is not appropriate for every situation.

Factors that may affect suitability can include the willingness of participants to engage, significant power imbalances, safety concerns, the complexity of the dispute and whether meaningful discussion is realistically possible.

An initial assessment can help determine whether mediation may be an appropriate option.

What types of civil disputes can be mediated?

A wide range of civil disputes may be suitable for mediation, including property, boundary, inheritance and contractual disputes. Suitability depends on the circumstances.

What commercial disputes can be mediated?

Mediation may be used for disputes involving contracts, suppliers, customers, partners, property and other commercial relationships.

Can a business dispute be mediated?

Yes. Businesses and other organisations can participate in mediation where the circumstances make the process suitable.

Does the mediator represent my business?

No. The mediator is impartial and does not act as the legal representative of one participant against another.

Can mediation avoid court proceedings?

Mediation can provide an alternative opportunity to resolve a dispute, although it cannot guarantee that court proceedings will ultimately be unnecessary.

Is mediation confidential?

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

How long does commercial mediation take?

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

How much does it cost?

The cost of mediation depends on factors such as the nature and complexity of the dispute, the number of participants and the anticipated time required. Contact our team to discuss the nature of your dispute and obtain information about the applicable fees and arrangements.

Have a Commercial or Civil Dispute?

Taking action early can create an opportunity to address the issues before they become more entrenched. Contact PLB Mediation Services to discuss whether mediation may be suitable for your circumstances.