What is Mediation and how does it work?
Mediation is a process in which an independent, neutral Mediator assists two or more disputing parties in resolving the dispute in a collaborative, consensual manner. Mediation is an effective way of resolving disputes , it achieves resolution through negotiation rather than confrontation, so leading to resolutions which last and promote well-being and happiness.
The structure of the mediation process will vary depending on the type of dispute. Generally, an agreement to Mediate will be signed at the outset and the mediator will then meet with the parties together and / or separately, over the course of one day or in sessions over a number of days or weeks. Solicitors or other advisors may attend mediation sessions if required. If agreement is reached this will be recorded and signed at the mediation, and further steps which may be required to make the agreement legally enforceable may follow.
Mediation is......
- a form of ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution).
- a way of resolving disputes.
- a process in which the Mediator assists the parties to negotiate a settlement.
- a process of collaboration, not conflict.
- a transformative, empowering process.
- safe, respectful and voluntary.
- constantly consultative – nothing happens without your input.
- a process which invites an open mind.
Mediation has......
- already resolved disputes exactly like yours.
- a proven track record in achieving fantastic results in a wide range of situations.
- a structure to identify issues and deal with differences.
- a timetable, agreed with the parties, designed to meet their needs.
- the flexibility to find dynamic and creative solutions when needed.
- the potential to resolve any dispute.
Mediation Can......
- be applied to virtually any situation where two or more parties have differences they cannot resolve themselves.
- involve just two parties or several or many participants.
- resolve simple, single issue disputes or complex, multifaceted disputes.
- be applied to commercial, legal, community, workplace and family disputes.
- resolve even a difficult dispute in a short space of time.
- involve the parties meeting directly but doesn’t have to.
Mediation is not a substitute for legal advice, that's what lawyers are for. Mediation is not a way of receiving counselling, that’s what counsellors and psychologists are for.
So, what does a Mediator do then?
The mediator’s primary role is as an impartial neutral facilitator who assists the parties toward conciliation, negotiation and agreement. A skilled Mediator will use a variety of communication techniques to instigate or improve dialogue and empathy between the parties. The Mediator provides a safe, confidential and inspirational environment in order to give the parties the best possible opportunity to resolve their dispute. Eugene believes that successful mediation is based on trust., and will always provide his disputants with a confidential space in which they can raise their concerns and work towards an acceptable resolution. He remains completely neutral, impartial, independent and professional at all times.
Eugene believes that contact with all parties prior to the mediation is a vital part of the process and he likes to talk to each party before the mediation takes place, to develop a rapport and ensure that all concerned understand what to expect throughout the process. Extensive experience has informed him that this works well to enable the parties to ‘hit the ground running’ when the mediation starts.
During the mediation itself Eugene will have an open and relaxed manner, but will also be firm and direct when the situation requires it, and he will ensure the parties are guided away from wasting valuable time. Eugene constantly updates and improves upon his skills and practice. As an accredited mediator with The Mediators’ Institute of Ireland, Eugene is in constant training which offers him a range of continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities, including specialist training courses, events, workshops, conferences & member resources. At present, three out of four mediation cases that Eugene takes on conclude with with reaching an agreement for his clients.
Eugene’s Dispute Resolution experience includes:
Workplace mediation .
Mediation for separating couples
Community mediation/negotiation process in the North of Ireland.
Agriculture mediation.
Elder mediation.
A Mediator is...
- a highly trained, skilled professional subject to the rigorous MII Code of ethics and standards.
- non-judgmental and non-directive – they will not give opinions on the parties’ actions or positions.
- trained in a variety of conflict resolution techniques and therefore an expert in de-escalating conflicts into agreements.
- a natural facilitator who helps the parties think ‘outside the box’.
- a gifted and trained communicator.
- a guide who encourages the parties through the Mediation process.
- an inspiration to the parties when obstacles arise.
How long will Mediation take?
This again depends on the nature of the dispute and how complex it is. Sometimes mediation will be carried out in one day, and sometimes in a series of sessions over weeks or even months. The parties and the mediator will decide how best to structure the mediation. Mediation can be extremely effective in a very short period of time.
Many thanks to the Mediators' Institute of Ireland (www.the mmi.ie) who provided the comprehensive documentation on Mediation on this page.
Eugene O'Reilly is an approved mediator with the Mediator's Institute of Ireland
