The total number of sessions required depends upon the parties ability to co-operate and the complexity of the situation. Mediation, however is intended to be a short-term process.
A mediation session is between 1.50 – 2 hours in length.
Mediation is not expensive in comparison to litigation. Agreement can be reached within 3 – 6 sessions.
You could ask – Can you afford not to mediate?
Discussions are private and confidential and based on co-operation between the parties to reach consensus on any of the issues relevant to the conflict.
The mediation process brings parties together and the Mediator is there to keep discussions on track, and to keep the parties future focused. All options will be explored and considered and with the help of a skilled mediator each party will be encouraged to seek expert advice, whether it be legal,financial or technical.
The answer is NO. Mediation has been used in ireland to resolve conflicts in many areas since the late 1980's.
Following the final Mediation session the Mediator will record what the clients have agreed in a Note of Mediated Agreement/Note of Understanding carefully outlining the decisions made by the parties.
Mediation is not a substitute for independent legal advice. Independent lawyers may be chosen by each party to review the agreement to assure that each party's interests are protected and to prepare legal documents if required.