Question 1

What is mediation?

Accepted Answer

Mediation is a confidential, voluntary process where a neutral third party (the mediator) helps disputing parties reach a mutually acceptable resolution. Unlike litigation, mediation is collaborative rather than adversarial, focusing on finding solutions that work for everyone involved.

Question 2

How is mediation different from litigation?

Accepted Answer

Mediation is typically faster, less expensive, and less adversarial than litigation. It's confidential, flexible, and allows parties to maintain control over the outcome. Litigation can take years and tens of thousands of pounds; mediation often resolves disputes in days or weeks at a fraction of the cost.

Question 3

Is mediation legally binding?

Accepted Answer

The mediation process itself is not binding, but any agreement reached during mediation can be made legally binding if both parties choose to formalise it in a written settlement agreement. This gives you the security of a legal resolution with the flexibility of a negotiated outcome.

Question 4

How long does mediation take?

Accepted Answer

Most disputes resolve in 1 mediation sessions. Initial consultations are typically 15 minutes, while full mediation sessions range from 2-4 hours or 4-7 hours depending on complexity. Simple disputes may resolve in a single session, while complex IP or commercial matters might require multiple sessions.

Question 5

What should I prepare before mediation?

Accepted Answer

Gather all relevant documents (contracts, correspondence, evidence), prepare a brief summary of your position and desired outcomes, and think about your priorities and potential compromises. We'll provide a detailed preparation checklist after booking to ensure you're fully ready.

Question 6

What happens during a mediation session?

Accepted Answer

Sessions typically begin with joint discussions where each party presents their perspective. The mediator then facilitates dialogue, helps identify common ground, and may hold private sessions with each party. The goal is to explore options and work toward a mutually acceptable resolution.

Question 7

Can I bring a lawyer or advisor?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you're welcome to bring legal counsel or advisors to mediation sessions. Many parties find it helpful to have legal support, especially for complex IP or commercial disputes. However, mediation is designed to be accessible without legal representation if you prefer.

Question 8

What types of IP disputes do you handle?

Accepted Answer

We specialise in patent disputes, trademark conflicts, copyright infringement, song splits and royalty disagreements, trade secret matters, and licensing disputes. Our mediator has extensive experience with the technical and commercial aspects of IP conflicts via the role as a music publisher.

Question 9

How Is IP Mediation Different from Regular Mediation?

Accepted Answer

IP mediation focuses specifically on disputes involving intellectual property such as copyright, trademarks, patents, trade secrets, royalties, licensing, ownership, and infringement. Regular mediation covers a much broader range of disputes, like family, employment, commercial contracts, or neighbour disagreements.

Question 10

What if my IP dispute involves confidential information?

Accepted Answer

All mediation is strictly confidential. We can also establish additional confidentiality protocols, including non-disclosure agreements and secure document handling procedures, to protect sensitive technical or commercial information throughout the process.

Question 11

How much does mediation cost?

Accepted Answer

Our pricing varies by dispute type and complexity. For detailed pricing information and to see all available mediation options, please visit our pricing page.

Question 12

Is mediation cheaper than litigation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, significantly. Mediation typically costs 10-20% of litigation expenses and resolves disputes in days or weeks rather than months or years. Mediation has a 90% success rate meaning most disputes are resolved without court proceedings.

Question 13

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept bank transfers, PayPal, major credit/debit cards, and Klarna payment plans. Full payment is due 14 days before your scheduled mediation session.

Question 14

Are there any hidden fees?

Accepted Answer

No. All fees are agreed upfront with complete transparency. For in-person mediation, venue, travel & accommodation costs may apply separately and will be discussed in advance. Online mediation has no additional costs.

Question 15

Is online mediation as effective as in-person?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Online mediation is just as effective as in-person sessions and offers additional benefits including convenience, flexibility, no travel costs, and the ability to connect parties from different locations. We use secure, professional video conferencing platforms.

Question 16

What technology do I need for online mediation?

Accepted Answer

You'll need a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and microphone, stable internet connection, and a quiet, private space. We'll provide detailed technical instructions and can conduct a test call before your session to ensure everything works smoothly.

Question 17

Can I switch between online and in-person?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer flexibility. You might start with an online consultation and move to in-person sessions for the main mediation, or vice versa. We'll work with you to find the format that best suits your needs and circumstances.

Question 18

How do I book a consultation?

Accepted Answer

You can book through our online calendar system. Initial consultations are typically 15 minutes and help us understand your dispute and explain how mediation can help.

Question 19

How quickly can mediation start?

Accepted Answer

For urgent matters, we can often schedule consultations within 48-72 hours. Full mediation sessions typically begin within 1-2 weeks of initial contact, depending on all parties' availability. High-urgency cases can be accommodated faster.

Question 20

What if I need to reschedule?

Accepted Answer

We understand schedules change. Please provide at least 48 hours notice for rescheduling to avoid cancellation fees. We'll work with you to find a new time that works for all parties.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Mediation

The Mediation Process

Intellectual Property Disputes

Pricing & Payment

Online vs In-Person

Booking & Scheduling