My role
I will never be an advocate or judge. The deal you make has to be your own. But I will look for a win: win situation. That way, there are no scars of battle, no expense of weaponry, no loss of face, no waste of time. Business or private relationships can continue not merely on the same basis as before, but on an improved basis, strengthened by the common work in finding a win: win solution. That is what I try to give to my clients.
Inquisitor or umpire? Judge or referee?
I believe that my task is to keep the playing field as level as possible while avoiding taking a role as inquisitor or judge. I will try to prevent bombast, discourtesy and arrogance. Never do I forget that my role is as a neutral facilitator. If ultimately the parties agree a deal which seems to me unfair, it is not part of my job to say so or to discourage a conclusion.
Pressing for a solution
One mediator may take a different view from another as to the extent to which he should advise the parties, both privately, and in the public discussion. I do not take the view that the parties should be left entirely to their own devices. I believe that you, my mediation clients, pay me a considerable fee to take a pro-active role in achieving a settlement. Sometimes that may involve blunt speaking and disagreement. I hope it will also involve creative thinking. Even if you do not achieve a solution “on the day” I want my intervention to have provided a catalyst around which you may agree terms later.
Venue for mediation
Mediation hearings can be arranged in East Anglia, the East Midlands or London. The most common type of venue is a hotel. I rate easy parking, convenient location and basic comfort above five star luxury. However, since I am spending your money, I shall make sure you have input into my proposals for a venue.
Speed of action
Action can sometimes be taken immediately. Urgent cases can be dealt with in a matter of days, sometimes within hours.
The mediation framework is flexible. When you have completed the registration page on this website and sent information to The Mediator, he will assess your information, then answer your questions, and confirm your instructions for the mediation to proceed. The procedure is very simple!