Mediation Services

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a confidential process in which an independent and unbiased person assists disputing parties to identify the issues, consider potential options and alternatives that might resolve these issues, and endeavour to reach an agreement. It is an appropriate resolution process for most kinds of disputes including employment, commercial, statutory, family, neighbour, and local government matters. 

Mediation can be undertaken voluntarily, pursuant to an existing contractual agreement, or by court order. Mediation can be a compulsory step in the judicial process with some parties being required to attempt resolution by mediation before being heard in court. Mediation can be started before or after litigation has commenced and won’t affect the position in court lists. 

What is the Process?

As an NMAS Accredited Mediator Cat Walker works within a facilitative mediation framework. This begins with a Pre-Mediation Intake Meeting (PMIM) in which Cat meets separately with parties for one hour. This meeting can be held by phone, video-conference, or in person, and is completely confidential. 

During the PMIM Cat will ask questions about the matter to establish whether it is suitable for mediation and, if so, who needs to be involved. Cat will ensure that parties understand the process and feel as comfortable and prepared as possible. A copy of the ADC Mediation Guidelines & National Mediator Standards will be provided. 

Following the PMIM, provided that both parties make the informed decision to participate, a mediation will be held at a time and location convenient to everyone. Mediations can be held in person or online and will usually require a minimum of three hours. More complex matters may require a half day, full day, or up to two days. Many parties reach a long lasting and mutually beneficial agreement within a short timeframe, and the process is completely confidential. 

What is the Role of the Mediator?

As a facilitative mediator Cat has no advisory or determinative role in relation to the content of the mediation. In other words, Cat will help parties with the process of mediation but will not form an opinion about the content or outcome of the dispute. Cat’s role as mediator is to ensure that the process is fair, parties are heard, and everyone feels safe and comfortable. Cat will also draft a heads of agreement during the final stages of the mediation, provided that a mutual and satisfactory agreement is reached. 

Cat’s background as a litigation lawyer ensures that mediation is balanced, objective and facilitative while her personal mediation style is grounded in a compassionate and down to earth approach. As mediator Cat will establish the context and causes of the conflict and select the appropriate strategies and interventions to help parties navigate through their conflict. Cat will empower parties to think laterally and creatively about decisions and resolutions that address the needs of all parties. 

Benefits

Mediation can deliver favourable outcomes for parties with minimal escalation, stress, and cost. Mediation is usually an informal process that can be organised quickly and at a time and place convenient to both parties. It can be significantly less expensive than litigation and the solutions can be more creative, empowering and satisfying than judicial remedies. 

Fees 

We offer a streamlined and cost-effective fee schedule, and fees are to be met equally by the parties.

Fees as at May 2024:

  • $350 per hour for mediation under 3 hours (2 hour minimum).

  • $900 for 3 hour mediation.

  • $1,250 for half day mediation (up to 5 hours).

  • $2,000 for full day mediation (up to 8 hours).

    Plus

  • $250 per hour for separate Pre-Mediation Intake Meetings (30 mins - 1 hour per party).

  • $250 per hour for work performed outside of mediation (e.g. additional meetings and reading).

All matters require a Pre-Mediation Intake Meeting (PMIM). The amount of time required for the mediation itself and any other work performed outside of the mediation will depend on the matter. Your solicitor or trusted advisor will be able to recommend the mediation duration and amount of pre-mediation work required, both of which can be capped so that there are no unforeseen expenses. If you are not working with a Solicitor or advisor, Cat will be able to advise you regarding the appropriate allowances for mediation and pre-mediation services to suit the nature of your matter.

How to Book

Book a free and confidential 15 minute phone consultation using my online calendar or email form here.

Are you a professional working in the veterinary industry? Find out more about Cat’s tailored veterinary mediation services here.