Association of South West Mediators Meet On 4th July At Exeter University
Making mediation a compulsory alternative to legal proceedings is one of the talking points at the Association of South West Mediators’ meeting at Exeter University on 4th July.
Mediation is a way of resolving disputes without going to court. If both parties in a dispute agree then a trained mediator, who is an impartial third party, guides the parties to an agreed settlement. The mediator does not impose a decision or judge the merits of the case.
Statistics show a high degree of settlement and satisfaction from the parties. But despite this, the proportion of cases referred to mediation remains very low. Is compulsory referral to mediation the answer?
Andrew Hannam, Chairman of the Association and partner at law firm Foot Anstey said “The Association was formed last year to create a greater awareness of mediation which is a cost effective way of resolving disputes between individuals and businesses.
“The great advantage of mediation is the outcome of the dispute is not in the court’s hands but remains in the control of the two parties.
“Our meeting is open to anyone involved or interested in mediation who will hear Dr Sue Prince, from the University of Exeter, propose the benefits of compulsory mediation using examples of schemes in different countries and areas of disputes.
“Stephen Jones a local mediator practitioner and trainer will argue the opposite view and District Judge Jill Wainwright who will explain the current legal position and present the court’s viewpoint. “
Attendance at the meeting, which will be followed by a drinks reception sponsored by the Devon and Exeter Law Society, will be free of charge.
Andrew Hannam can be contacted on 01823 625642 or email: andrew.hannam@foot-ansteys.co.uk
Published 29/06/2007
