What is mediation?
Mediation is an alternative form of dispute resolution to that of traditional legal alternatives. Mediation requires a neutral facilitator to assist individuals or organisations in dispute to reach an agreement that is satisfactory to all parties, thus ending the dispute.
What are the benefits of mediation?
Mediation can resolve disputes before they escalate and assist to preserve relationships. It is generally far less expensive than adversarial legal processes and can keep people out of Courts. Mediation enables much more timely agreements to be reached and provides greater levels of control. Solutions that have been mutually agreed upon will result in greater compliance and generally, mediation is a far less stressful process for participants.
Is the mediator neutral?
The mediator is entirely impartial and neutral. Our role is to help parties to agree on a fair resolution. We will not take sides, offer legal advice, make suggestions regarding the agreement or provide a decision.
Is mediation confidential?
Yes. Mediation is completely confidential and the mediator will not disclose content from the mediation proceedings. Matters discussed in mediation cannot be used as evidence in court legal proceedings, unless all parties consent.
What is the process at Independent Mediators Australia?
Contact us – and leave a brief message outlining the nature of your inquiry and the best time to contact you. An intake worker will contact you within 24 hrs and discuss the process as required.
Initial Intake – We will seek information from parties to ensure the dispute is appropriate for mediation and that parties are fully informed of the process of mediation.
Consent to mediate – Once we have consent and agreement from both sides a date, time and neutral location will be allocated for the mediation to occur.
On the day – Your mediator will allow both parties to present the issues and make introductory remarks, agree on the key issues to be discussed, explore issues and develop options, consider alternatives, work together to reach agreement and document any such agreement. There are different ways to achieve this objective and your qualified mediator will determine the best process for the parties.
Can I have a support person with me?
Yes it is possible to have a support person with you, though it will not be possible for them to represent you or advocate for you as such. Your assigned mediator will work through this with you in the pre-mediation consultation.
What does mediation cost?
Mediation costs can vary, however will generally be a fraction of the cost of more formal legal processes. Costs are generally shared between parties or covered by third party, generally an employer. We will ensure that you are fully aware of the costs that will be incurred and will not proceed without agreement.
When and where will the mediation occur?
Generally mediations can be arranged within a 2-3 week period pending demand at a time suitable to all parties. Mediations are held during normal business hours usually at our capital city CBD locations however can be held in other locations if agreed to by all parties.