At the annual “Six Minute Family Lawyer” program sponsored by the Law Society, Andrea Himel (one of the roster mediators for mediate393 inc.) gave a rousing speech about mediation.
She encouraged all lawyers to use the incredible array of mediation services as much as possible— because clients almost always win with mediation.
Andrea noted that there is free mediation in all Ontario courts. For lawyers waiting to have their case heard by a judge, there is virtually no downside to trying mediation. It costs the client nothing and could save the client a great deal of time, money and anxiety.
The mediators in the courts are all accredited and insured. They are experienced and skilled at helping parties in crisis– whether they have a lawyer or not– communicate and explore settlement options.
And, as Andrea noted, the province is also subsidizing “off-site” mediation for anyone in the province, whether they are in court or not.
These funded mediation services are a gift. Lawyers should be encouraging their clients to use them.
Andrea also spoke about how lawyers can help their clients prepare for and negotiate well in mediation. Her paper is published on our website; take a look!
