Mediation is a dispute resolution process that involves people who have feelings, goals, and marching orders. It is not simply an emotionless calculator for determining a monetary settlement.

The consistent focus by the state and federal judicial systems on alternative dispute resolution processes has made mediation an essential element of the civil trial process. 

The Convention defines mediation as a process where disputing parties seek to reach an amicable settlement with a third party’s assistance that does not have authority to impose a solution.

A mediator understands the differing perspectives of parties without judging, explores their underlying interests, allows them to vent their feelings.

Mediation is an out-of-court process that allows you and the other party to discuss various aspects of your divorce and generate an agreement that reflects both of your wishes.

The Government will be introducing fair tenancy laws involving the leasing of retail premises, and will be consulting with landlords and tenants in the next few months to work out details of the legislation. 

ODR platforms help courts relieve some of the strain from COVID. However, even when the pandemic has gotten more controlled and the general public feels safe about venturing out, people may still want the convenience that ODRs bring.

Since the beginning of the pandemic one year ago, we have seen the legal industry adapt to a technology-driven world, especially one area in particular: virtual mediation. 

Mediation has sometimes been described as a bit like marriage counselling. The mediator, like a counsellor, is there to listen to and facilitate discussions between the two parties in an attempt to identify common ground and areas of compromise.

With so many of us suddenly forced to use new technology in working from home, it is a good moment to think about what new technologies are on the horizon for lawyers even after business returns to normal.