How we work FAQs
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- Q: Where are mediations held?
- A: We recommend a neutral location that offers privacy, ease of access for the parties, and the usual office support services and refreshments.
- Q: Can my lawyer attend?
- A: We find that the parties themselves are best placed to resolve their issues, but we are happy to have representatives attend if the parties require. At the preliminary conference we will clarify the respective roles of the parties.
- Q: My dispute has been running for months/years, but now I want it sorted out. How quickly can I arrange a mediation?
- A: Subject to availability, a preliminary conference can usually be arranged in a week or so. Depending on the complexity of the matter, the number of parties, the location of the parties, and other relevant factors, a mediation can often be scheduled within a matter of weeks.
- Q: I think a preliminary conference is a waste of time and money. Can't I go straight to mediation?
- A: In our experience it helps to have a preliminary meeting to discuss the subject matter of the dispute, any particular arrangements that need to be made, any documents to be exchanged, and a timetable for the mediation. This is best done separately from the mediation conference. It sets the scene for the mediation proper. It also ensures we can get off to a good start without needing to discuss administrative details at that point. The preliminary conference takes about 45 minutes.
- Q: I want to have the mediation in my boardroom/ accountant's office/coffee shop. Is this possible?
- A: Provided that the basic requirements are met, and the parties agree, a mediation can take place in any suitable, neutral venue. Call us to discuss your requirements.
- Q: How long will the mediation take?
- A: Again, it depends on the complexity of the matter and the number of parties, but typically we would ask the parties to be available for a preliminary conference of about 45 minutes and then a session of 4 - 5 hours for the mediation conference. A mediation can be adjourned and reconvened if the parties require, or it may conclude more quickly. The benefit of mediation is that, when it's over, it's over. A signed agreement concludes the process and the parties can move on. Compared with the time spent in litigation, this is a relatively short amount of time to spend on joint problem solving.
- Q: Can we go back to the mediator later if we need more help?
- A: Yes. The mediator will usually offer the option of returning for a follow up session if the parties require it, to check that the agreement is on track and working effectively.
- Q: How do I know this will work?
- A: There can be no guarantees but the process used by Lloyd Mediation ensures that the parties are fully involved in the process and totally in control of the subject matter of the dispute. Questions are answered clearly and frankly. If the dispute is not amenable to mediation for some reason, you will be advised of this at the preliminary conference.
With an experienced mediator, and a genuine wish by the parties to resolve the dispute there is no reason why the process should not be successful. Resolution is however, to a large extent, in the hands of the parties. Should you have specific queries, we are happy to discuss our processes with you in more detail.
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