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Choosing the right mediator can be really important. At the end of the day, it's a very personal decision, but here's some pointers to help you....
- There's a lot of information about each of our mediators right here, with links to their individual CVs where you'll find genuine feedback from real mediations.
- Have a chat with our Mediation Coordinator, Mandy Hanby. Mandy has probably put together as many, if not more, mediations than anyone else in the country, and there really is no one better to guide you in making this choice. A starting point might be Mandy's video (click on the link above!).
- You could also have a look at the National Mediator Database League Table. This is an independent body, with no axe to grind, that collects feedback about mediators independently and ranks most of the mediators practising regularly in the UK. In particular, have a good look at each mediators' individual "History", which is a record of how many cases they've mediated, and is on the site, and see how often they actually mediate. There’s plenty who claim to be experienced but who rarely, if ever, mediate. The record doesn't lie; check it to see who walks the walk as well as talks the talk!
- Your solicitor or barrister may be able to recommend a mediator. And their recommendation should always weigh heavily with you because they know your case and they have your best interests at heart.
- Your opponent may suggest a particular mediator. If they do, it's human nature to think that the suggested mediator must be "their choice" and that you ought to reject them for that reason. But if both sides were to take that view then it would be impossible ever to agree a mediator, and in fact there's probably no need to worry. Any mediation provider registered by the Civil Mediation Council (inlcuding all of our mediators) will be totally independent and will follow the European Code of Conduct for Mediators which would prevent them accepting instructions if they faced a conflict of interest. Over and above which, a mediator won't impose a solution on you; they'll just work with both sides to see what might be a sensible solution. So if your opponent has had a good experience of a particular mediator, that may be a perfectly good reason to choose them.
When comparing mediators, be wary of hidden extra charges. Check what is included in the mediation fee. In particular, ask if it includes preparation time and extra hours on the mediation day. These “extras” should be included in the overall fee but, if not, they can significantly add to the cost of mediation. At mediation1st there are no “extras”; our mediation fees set out what you pay, and that’s all you pay.
