I’m an accredited mediator with a civil and commercial litigation background. As well as having represented parties as counsel in a diverse range of mediations, I’ve completed extensive training in mediation and negotiation (Harvard Law School, AMINZ, Resolution Institute and NZLS).

I have memberships with two of New Zealand’s leading alternative dispute resolution professional organisations, being both a fellow of AMINZ (mediation) and professional member of the Resolution Institute (formerly LEADR). I’m also on the NZLS Lawyers Complaints Service’s panel of mediators.

Approach

Disputes can be costly, stressful and time consuming, especially if they proceed to hearing. Mediation is one way to resolve a dispute.

My approach as a commercial mediator is to guide the parties through a flexible process which allows them to take control of the dispute. I aim to help the parties achieve settlement through facilitating the following:

• Information exchanges prior to mediation

• Identifying and discussing the issues in dispute

• The exploration of alternatives to settlement, including a risk analysis

• Generation of options for resolution and the exploration of those options

• Negotiations between the parties

Preparation

Thorough preparation for mediation enhances the prospect of settlement.

I will invite the parties to provide me with background materials regarding the dispute. This allows me to obtain insight into the nature of the dispute, so that we can maximise mediation time.

Engagement & Fees

I charge for my mediation services on a flat fee basis for a half-day or one-day mediation. With few exceptions, my flat fee includes all preparation and expenses.

On request I can provide copies of my standard terms of engagement (including fees) and mediation agreement.