Civil mediation is a voluntary, confidential process where people in dispute meet with a neutral third party — the mediator — to find a solution without going to court. The mediator does not decide the outcome. Instead, they help both sides communicate, clarify issues, and explore practical options.
Benefits of civil mediation
1. Cost-effective
Mediation is usually far cheaper than litigation. Fewer formal steps and a shorter timetable reduce legal fees.
2. Confidential
Court cases are public. Mediation is private, which protects sensitive information and reputations.
3. Preserves relationships
Mediation encourages cooperation and communication. It is well suited to business partners, neighbours and families who must keep working together.
4. Control over the outcome
Parties agree the solution themselves rather than having a judge impose a decision. That ownership often improves compliance.
5. Time-efficient
Mediation can be arranged quickly and resolved in days or weeks rather than years.
When is mediation appropriate?
Mediation works well for many civil disputes, including:
- contract and business disagreements
- property and neighbour disputes
- estate and inheritance matters
- workplace or employment conflicts
- landlord and tenant issues
It is most effective early, before positions harden and costs rise. But it can also succeed later, even after litigation has started.
How A de Bruyn Attorneys can help
At A de Bruyn Attorneys, our mediators guide parties through a fair, structured process. We prepare the parties, run the mediation sessions, and draft clear settlement agreements where required. Our focus is practical solutions that save time, money and stress.
If you face a civil dispute, consider mediation first. Contact A de Bruyn Attorneys to discuss whether mediation fits your case.