The benefits of using a mediator in the UK

Mediation has been on the rise in recent years. This form of alternative dispute resolution is often associated with arbitration, although the two are significantly different. The benefits of mediation for UK businesses are numerous, but they vary depending on the industry, the dispute and even the mediator. UK businesses most commonly cite the avoidance of full litigation costs as the reason for attempting mediation, which is probably the most crucial benefit of this service.

However, there are other benefits that can be pursued by the mediator. UK businesses that are able to settle a dispute through mediation are much more likely to work together in the future. This is because unlike in court cases, mediation works by bringing each party closer to the other side, attempting to arrive at a mutually acceptable compromise. Once this is reached there is much less of the lingering resentment that often follows a court decision. The other significant benefit is of course the matter of time. A mediation that progresses smoothly and results in a compromise can, in theory, resolve a dispute in one day. Litigation or arbitration proceedings typically take much longer.

If you are interested in resolving a legal dispute through the work of a mediator, UK solicitors can commonly help. Litigation solicitors can sometimes work as mediators or they can advise on the applicability of mediation in your particular case. The main legal aspect of mediation which solicitors are likely to inform you of is that mediation is not legally binding. This means that if you attend mediation you are under no legal obligation to accept any offered settlement.

If you would like to obtain legal advice on mediation, Contact Law can put you in touch with a local litigation solicitor free of charge. So, if you have any questions or would like our help in finding local litigation solicitors please call us on 0800 1777 162 or complete the web-form above.