Thredgold Law have a passion for conflict resolution, mediation and restorative justice.
This interest has been furthered across a range of postgraduate studies in the fields of dispute, mediation and conflict resolution, becoming Jann’s critical focus within Thredgold Law.
Everything you need to know about mediation
What is mediation?
Mediation sees participants paired with a trained mediator who provides support and helps to identify issues while negotiating and generating solutions.
The purpose of mediation?
The purpose of mediation is to give both parties an opportunity to be heard, and to listen, in order to come to a mutually agreed upon solution. Mediation allows the parties to have control of the outcome, rather than a magistrate or judge. Mediation is often a far cheaper alternative than attending Court where outcome control is severely limited.
How does mediation work?
After the preliminary meetings, which can be several days or weeks prior to the date of the mediation, the parties come together and with the mediator, seek to establish an outcome. This process varies depending on the matter and type of mediation required. As part of our preliminary meeting, the process of your mediation will be outlined.
What is the role of a mediator?
The role of the Mediator is to guide the parties towards a resolution by encouraging an open and respectful discussion. The mediator will remain neutral and will not take sides. The mediator is unable to give legal advice.
Is mediation confidential?
Yes, everything discussed in mediation remains confidential. Unless there is agreement made by all parties, anything discussed during mediation cannot be used as evidence in court.
How long does mediation usually take?
We set aside three hours for mediations. When attending mediation please make sure you have planned to be available for the entire time. This includes making suitable childcare/parking arrangements, and having medication available if required.
Can I bring a support person?
Usually the answer is yes, however you will need to advise the mediator prior to the mediation. Approval is required from all parties attending mediation.
Where will mediation be held?
Your mediation will be held at a venue most convenient to all parties. While the mediator will book the most appropriate venue, the conflicted parties will share the full cost of venue hire.
Will the mediator decide on the outcome?
No, this is not the role of the mediator. The mediator will guide the parties through the process to come to an agreement. The mediator cannot enforce an agreement. However, if a resolution is reached a written agreement can be signed. If an agreement cannot be reached, the parties are often a step closer to resolving the dispute, having been able to discuss the issues face to face during mediation.
What are the mediator’s qualifications?
In addition to being an Australian Lawyer, Jann is a Nationally Accredited Mediator.
