What is Mediation

As per The MII Mediators Institute of Ireland

Mediation is...

• a form of Alternative Dispute Resolution

• a way of resolving disputes

• a process in which the Mediator assists the parties to negotiate a settlement

• a process of collaboration, not conflict

• a transformative, empowering process

• safe, respectful, and voluntary

• constantly consultative - nothing happens without your input

• a process which invites an open mind

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Mediation has...

• already resolved disputes exactly like yours

• a proven track record in achieving fantastic results in a wide range of situations

• a structure to identify issues and deal with differences.

• a timetable, agreed with the parties, designed to meet their needs

• the flexibility to find dynamic and creative solutions when needed

• the potential to resolve any dispute

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Mediation can...

• be applied to virtually any situation where two or more parties have differences, they cannot resolve themselves

• involve just two parties or several or many participants

• resolve simple, single-issue disputes or complex, multifaceted disputes

• be applied to commercial, legal, community, workplace and family disputes

• resolve even a difficult dispute in a short space of time

• involve the parties meeting directly but doesn't have to

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Mediation is not 

• a substitute for legal advice - that's what lawyers are for

• a way of receiving counselling - that’s what counsellors and psychologists are for

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Services

Community mediation

Community mediation facilitates people who are in dispute and living in conflict with each other. The mediation process allows them to participate in solving these obstacles through in-person meetings to negotiate and understand the needs of all concerned. Community mediation aims to improve the quality of life for those living in the community and to support
and empower them to live in harmony.

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Some examples of community conflicts are:

• disagreements between friends

• neighbour-to-neighbour problems

• family tensions and disagreements

• vandalism and property damage

• community issues

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Workplace mediation

Workplace Mediation aims to resolve workplace disputes and disagreements, particularly between individuals or small groups. It is a confidential service which gives employees and employers an opportunity to work with a mediator to find a mutually agreed solution to the problem the are facing. Workplace mediation is a voluntary process which needs to have both
sides agreeing to participate and to work towards a solution to the problem.

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Some examples of workplace mediation are:

• relationship breakdown

• personality clashes

• communication problems

• bullying and harassment

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Divorce/Separating Couples Mediation

Mediation for Divorce and/or Separating Couples works to help couples who have decided to separate or divorce, or who have already separated, to come to agreement in relation to decisions about the children, the family home, finances and the future.
The process of mediation helps you both to negotiate on your own terms an agreement in a safe space, while addressing the needs and interests your family and all involved. Mediation allows you and your ex-partner to make your own decisions, rather than going to court and having a judge make them for you. Mediation can be an effective, less expensive, and quicker
alternative to court procedures. Mediation is not marriage counselling or a legal advice service.

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Some examples of Divorce/Separating Couples Mediation are:

• accommodation

• parenting plans and the voice of your child

• financial planning

• interim and partial agreements

• succession and wills