Glossary · Legal & Court

Mediation

A process where an independent person helps the parties try to reach their own agreement, without imposing a decision.

How mediation works

Mediation is a process in which an independent, neutral person — the mediator — helps the parties to a dispute communicate and explore options for resolving it. The mediator does not decide the matter or impose an outcome; their role is to assist the parties in reaching their own agreement if they can.

Mediation is often confidential and less formal than a court hearing. It may be used voluntarily or as a step some courts and tribunals encourage before a matter proceeds, depending on the jurisdiction.

Mediation in debt matters

For commercial debts, mediation can offer a faster, lower-cost path to resolution and can help preserve a business relationship. If the parties agree on terms, the result is usually recorded as a settlement. Even where mediation does not fully resolve a dispute, it can narrow the issues that remain.

This is general information only and is not legal advice. The availability and conduct of mediation vary between jurisdictions — obtain advice on your specific situation.

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