Frequently asked questions
The OMG provides mediators to parties in dispute referred to them by courts through the National Mediation Helpline or directly from parties themselves.
What is mediation?
Why use mediation?
What happens if the courts refer the parties to mediation?
What happens in mediation?
Where does the mediation take place?
How much does mediation cost?
Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process for resolving disagreements in which an impartial third party (the mediator) helps people in dispute find a mutually acceptable resolution.
- Mediation gives those involved an opportunity to step back and think about how they could put the situation right. This can mean looking at their own behaviour as well as that of other people.
- Mediation enables participants to come up with their own practical solution which will benefit all sides.
- Mediation allows people to rebuild relationships as they work together to find an agreement. This is different to the legal process, where hostility often remains between parties once the case is over.
- Mediation is often more cost effective and quicker to the user than going to court, and is a flexible process that can be used to settle disputes in a whole range of situations.
- Mediation is also an excellent preventative tool and can be used effectively to stop problems escalating and becoming worse.
What happens if the courts refer the parties to mediation?
Where proceedings have been started and the parties agree to mediation, the judge will stay the proceedings before the court for a period to enable mediation to be conducted. If no settlement is reached in mediation the matter will be referred to a judge who will give directions for trial. If settlement is reached the court will record the settlement and bring the action to a close. The mediator drafts report to the court on the outcome of the mediation
The parties meet the mediator and sign an agreement to mediate The mediator them facilitates process where the parties meet together and meet separately with the mediator to explore the issues in dispute and the possible solutions to the dispute. If agreement is reached the parities draft a settlement agreement ( link to suggested settlement agreement) and this is signed.
Where does the mediation take place?
Usually at least three rooms will be available at the mediation venue: one room where everyone can meet and separate rooms for each of the parties where they can meet the mediator without the presence of the other party. The
OMG will endeavor to provide these free of charge at their mediator's premises; otherwise the parties must make their own arrangements and in that case pay for the use of the venue.
We aim to provide commercial mediators at competitive prices by agreement with the parties. As a general guide the fees charged are as follows:-
Two party dispute
Mediators will be charged at:
- Half day (4 hour mediation or part thereof) £750 to £1,000 plus VAT
- Whole day (8 hour mediation or part) £1,600 to £2,000 plus VAT
- Additional hours (£190 to £250) plus VAT
Three party dispute
- Half day(4 hour mediation or part thereof) - £900 to £1,200 plus VAT
- Whole day 8 hour mediation or part) - £1,800 to £2,400 plus VAT
- Additional hours (£190 to £250) plus VAT
The rates above include up to 1 hour preparation and up to 4 hours total travel time. Travel costs incurred will be charged at cost for public transport and at 40p per mile plus VAT.
To enquire about the charging rates of an individual OMG mediator please contact
Russell Porter
3 Paper Buildings
1 Alfred Street
Oxford
OX1 4EH
tel: 01865 793736
email: Russell.Porter@3paper.co.uk