OUR PRACTICE AREA

Business Mediation & Commercial Dispute Resolution Services

Business Disputes
OUR APPROACH

Bridge Mediation can assist your organisation, your clients and your suppliers with an opportunity to work together with the assistance of our mediator/facilitator/neutral third party to find a resolution to your business disputes.

Running a business involves interacting with multiple individuals and organisations who make up your supply chain. It is normal for problems to occur from time to time which may lead to ongoing conflict and disputes with any one of these parties. Most disputes can be resolved quickly and effectively through facilitated communications between the decision makers of the involved parties

If you are unable to resolve this conflict and reach an agreement, consider using an appropriate dispute resolution process to enable all the relevant representatives to work together to discuss the problem, explore options to resolve the dispute, and agree on the best solution to restore the working relationships which are critical to the success of your business. 

Mediation is a better approach than resorting to costly and time consuming litigation and then have a court make a determination for you.

Benefits of

Using Bridge Mediation

Benefits of

Mediation for Both Parties

business disputes

Mediation Process Model

Request for Mediation

Request for Mediation

01
  • What is the dispute?
  • Negotiations fail to resolve dispute
  • Identify participants involved in dispute
Appointment of Mediator

Appointment of Mediator

02
  • Roles and Mediation Agreement
  • Voluntary, Self-determination
  • Neutrality, Confidentiality
Preparation by each Party

Preparation by each Party

03
  • Parties prepare brief position statements
  • Identify interests and Needs
  • Consider various outcomes
Joint Session and Discussions

Joint Session and Discussions

04
  • Mediator’s Opening statement
  • Parties Statements
  • Agenda – Identification of issues
Private Meetings with each Party

Private Meetings with each Party

05
  • Identify Opportunities
  • Risks
  • Reality Testing
Final Session

Final Session

06
  • Options for Resolution
  • Negotiate the details
  • What if no agreement

References

What our clients are saying about our mediation services
  • I retained Chris to assist in resolving a seemingly implacable “disharmony” between two valued employees that was significantly impacting my office in Sydney. He saw each employee alone and then had a third meeting with both of them. The change was extraordinary, not only was “peace” brought to the office but they became the best of friends and remain so. On this one episode alone I would unreservedly recommend Chris.

    Kim Darling
    Managing Director
  • I needed a mediator so I googled “I need a mediator“. I was put onto Chris from Bridge Mediation .Chris was so helpful and fair and explained how everything worked. If you need a mediator I recommend Bridge Mediation.

    Laurence G
  • Thank you for your facilitation services in what has been a very difficult situation. We can now see the positive progress we are making. Your calm, respectful, considerate and very professional manner was like a breath of fresh air at the meeting and most welcome.

    Carmel V.
    Chairperson

FAQs: Business Dispute Resolution

What Is Mediation In The Context Of Business Dispute Resolution?

Mediation is a facilitative form of alternative dispute resolution where a neutral mediator helps parties involved in a business dispute reach a resolution.

Why Mediation?

Mediation is quicker, less expensive, and more flexible than litigation. It allows both sides to share concerns and find solutions that might not be possible in court. Since the parties decide on the outcome, they are both more likely to be satisfied with the resultant outcome.

Mediation also helps preserve business relationships, especially for small businesses and family enterprises and is effective in resolving business-to-business disputes.

Is Mediation Confidential?

Yes, mediation is private. What’s discussed during the mediation cannot be used as evidence in court unless required by law. Only the final agreement is recorded. This ensures the confidentiality of the dispute and protects the business and family enterprises involved.

What Is The Role Of The Mediator In Business Dispute Resolution?

The mediator helps to facilitate communications and negotiations between the parties. They remain neutral, ensuring fair discussion and guiding the process towards a solution. The mediator sets ground rules, keeps the conversation respectful, and helps maintain a positive relationship between the parties, aiming to mediate a resolution.

What Is The Cost Of The Mediation?

The cost of mediation depends on several factors including time and the nature of the dispute.  Bridge Mediation can provide an estimate once we have a high-level understanding of  the dispute. Mediation is a low-cost option compared to litigation, helping you resolve the dispute without needing to go to court.

How Do I Prepare For Mediation To Resolve A Business Dispute?

Before participating in mediation you may want to obtain  legal advice based on the nature  of your dispute. Consider your options and the potential outcomes available to you in mediation. Be readyprepared all your facts to communicate your position, and listen to the other party’s position.

Work with the other party to Identify all your options and consider your best and worst acceptable outcomes. Stay flexible, open-minded, and prepared to make wise decisions. The mediator is available to help the parties prepare for the mediation.

Why Do We Need To Pay In Advance?

Payment in advance by both parties is standard practice for mediations as it enables the mediator to obtain the commitment of both parties to participate in the mediation process. An invoice will be issued prior to the mediation enable payment to be made in accordance with the mediation agreement.

This approach also helps both parties stay invested in reaching a successful and timely resolution, as mediations require the parties to engage with mutual intent and accountability.

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