In 2023 I took the decision to train as a Civil & Commercial Mediator, meaning that I could then mediate in any other type of dispute as well as Family Law. I took a week-long intensive training course with ongoing assessments, a written exam and assessed role play. Students came from all around the UK and further afield and included Barristers and Judges. I was one of only a few delegates to achieve 100% in the written exam. 

A factor in my decision, was that the Court system is clearly under a lot of strain at present, and there is an increasing frustration amongst clients and professionals, that it takes so long to reach a point where cases are resolved. Similar to family law, the vast majority of civil and commercial cases resolve before they get to the point where a Judge makes a decision. To get to the point of settlement, it can easily take many months (or years) and cost a vast amount of money in legal fees. Very commonly in such a case, it is hard to feel like you have “won” even if you are successful. Going to mediation at an early stage will help focus minds, and help to reduce or completely avoid a very long wait, a lot of stress, and a very big legal costs bill. 

Civil & Commercial mediation differs from Family Law mediation in a number of ways, and one of which is that there is likely to be less of an ongoing relationship between the parties after mediation has finished. Sessions are generally longer and usually there is just one mediation session lasting for a half day, or full day. 

Typical issues which can be discussed and resolved in mediation, include Trusts of Land Act disputes, boundary and property disputes, any Small Claims and money cases, and Fast track cases. It is always worth making an enquiry so that I can assess whether mediation is appropriate.

Regarding mediation fees, please see here : Fees