Why Not Choose Mediation?
If you have a dispute which is causing stress, or looks like heading for court (or is already in court) why not consider mediation?

What is Mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary process that involves the participants meeting in person or online with a neutral third party (a mediator) and with the mutual aim of finding a resolution. It can be described as a ‘facilitated negotiation.’
What is the role of a Mediator?
A mediator is an independent, neutral professional who supports parties in dispute work towards a voluntary settlement without going to court. The mediator does not make a decision or impose an outcome. Instead, they facilitate constructive discussions to help both sides identify common ground and work towards a mutually acceptable resolution. At Edwards Duthie Shamash, our experienced mediation team supports participants through this process with a focus on a practical, cost-effective outcome.
The mediator’s role is to help the participants better understand their individual, and common interests. The solution need not be one that a Judge could impose. Mediation can save time stress and costs. It can produce a more imaginative, commercial, and sustainable resolution than a court determined outcome.
What are the benefits of Mediation?
Mediation is a way of working with people to enable them to resolve their differences. It is an opportunity to “nip things in the bud”, and for participants to own and manage the outcomes. It is confidential impartial and non-judgemental. Mediation follows an ethical code of practice.
The courts are increasingly encouraging or directing parties to mediate but there are major advantages to mediation apart from complying with court directions or rules. Mediation saves time and stress for participants and legal representatives and can save a lot of money. It allows people to have far more control over the outcome than leaving the decision in the hands of a Judge and the lottery of a final hearing. If mediation takes place before proceedings have started other things can be written into a mediation agreement that are not possible in a court order, (such as a written apology).
How much does Mediation cost?
The cost of mediation depends on factors such as the complexity of the dispute, the value of the claim, and the duration of the mediation. While there are costs involved, mediation is generally far more cost-effective than litigation.
Speak to our Mediation Solicitors Today
At Edwards Duthie Shamash we see people spend years of their lives involved in stressful and expensive litigation – but this could often be avoided. People are increasingly realising that court should be the last resort, and that their issues could be resolved in the next few weeks rather than the next couple of years.
Our mediation team has experience in a wide range of disputes, involving individuals and local authorities.
If you would like to discuss mediation, please contact our mediation solicitors on 020 8514 9035 or complete our online contact form and we will get back in touch. alternatively you can email our team directly on mediation@edslaw.co.uk.
Mediation Solicitors FAQs
Mediation can often help people resolve a dispute without the need for court proceedings. A neutral mediator helps the parties discuss their concerns, identify areas of agreement and work towards a solution they can both accept. Even where court proceedings have already started, mediation may still provide an opportunity to settle the dispute without going all the way to a final hearing.
Edwards Duthie Shamash can advise on whether mediation could be suitable for your dispute. Contact our mediation team at mediation@edslaw.co.uk to discuss your circumstances.
The cost of mediation depends on factors such as the complexity of the dispute, its value and how long the mediation takes. However, mediation can be significantly more cost-effective than litigation, particularly where it helps avoid lengthy court proceedings and the associated legal costs.
Edwards Duthie Shamash can explain the likely costs of mediation and help you consider whether it could be a practical alternative to court. Contact our mediation team at mediation@edslaw.co.uk.
Mediation can be used to resolve a wide range of disputes involving individuals, businesses and organisations, including disputes involving local authorities. It can be particularly useful where the parties want to find a practical solution while avoiding the time, cost and stress associated with litigation.
Edwards Duthie Shamash has experience in a wide range of disputes and can advise whether mediation may be appropriate for your situation. Contact our mediation team at mediation@edslaw.co.uk to discuss your dispute.