Mediation

What is mediation?

An independent person assists in the resolution of the parties’ dispute, with a view to eliminating the need for litigation.

The advantages over litigation are that costs are reduced, control remains in the hands of the parties and issues are resolved with greater speed and efficiency.

CEDR statistics indicate that 60-80% of disputes that are made the subject of mediation settle on the day.

“Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbour to compromise whenever you can…As a peacemaker the lawyer has a superior opportunity of being a good man. There will still be business enough.” Abraham Lincoln

“The first thing we do; let’s kill all the lawyers.” Shakespeare – King Henry VI

Our Mediators:

Michael Beckman QC

Michael Beckman QC is an ADR and CEDR accredited mediator with over 50 years of experience at the Bar. He is renowned for his wit and intuition, which enable him to determine the fundamental issues at the heart of any dispute. Michael combines the breadth of his expertise with a sense of humour and a natural gift for understanding people, enabling him to guide parties in dispute to the most favourable outcomes possible. His vast array of talents makes him a truly outstanding mediator.

“Michael brings a lifetime of wit and wisdom to the resolution of disputes. He has exceptional experience over a wide spectrum of activities. His ability to help clients reach an appropriate result notwithstanding ostensibly insurmountable difficulties is legend.” Neil Sampson, Rosenblatt Solicitors

“His success stems from a unique and highly independent approach to his work and clients. It is this approach which will ensure a positive mindset for those participating in his mediation.” Peter Johnson, Alexanders

Paul Wheatley

Paul is a CEDR accredited mediator, with a wealth of experience as both a general manager and company director. He has particular expertise in the fields of technology and telecommunications. Paul has held directorships of companies with combined net assets in excess of £500 million.

Paul is also a founding member and partner of the Association of Cambridge Mediators, a regional service provider for the National Mediation Helpline. Paul is currently expanding his practice to cover deal mediation, i.e. applying the principles of mediation to help parties in a negotiation to “close better deals faster.” For more information on this aspect of his practice, please visit www.dealmediation.co.uk.

Paul is a natural people person with experience in handling all forms of mediation. His calm disposition and insight enable him to determine the issues at the heart of any dispute, and assist the parties to reach a mutually beneficial resolution. As such, he represents the perfect choice as mediator.

"I would say this was excellent, not just good" Mr B, Lay client

"Excellent. Not coercive but helped parties soo the benefits of early resolution and pitfalls. I genuinely did not believe the parties' differences would be able to be overcome. Even the client was surprised agreement was brokered" Mr H, Solicitor

“Friendly and easy to work with. Very focussed, events moved briskly throughout the day. I think it is good value for money” Ms M & Mr A, Lay clients

“Very friendly, helpful and polite” Ms F, Lay client

“Happy with the mediator’s approach and assistance on the day” Ms M, Legal Executive

“Very good” Ms P, Solicitor

“Good grasp of the salient points. The process worked very well.” Dr I, Lay client

“Seemed to have suitable drive and appeared to have great understanding” Mr B, Solicitor

John Gallop

John is CEDR accredited and has a wealth of experience as both a lead and assistant mediator. As a manager at C Hoare and Co, his particular area of expertise is banking. He has applied his specialist knowledge to high value disputes involving most of the high-street banks and dealt with corporate, offshore and cross-border issues.

John’s role as a relationship manager at a private bank has allowed him to build lasting associations with numerous clients. His natural and instinctive rapport with a broad range of people was put to use successfully during his 4 years as a local councillor for the London Borough of Bromley.

To date, John has a 100% track record of settlement in mediations he has handled.

Facilities:

4KBW is based within the Inner Temple and has 2 bespoke conference rooms available for mediations. Please contact our senior clerk Spencer Payne for further information on availability and prices.