Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How much does it cost?Costs (including GST) are:
| Preliminary meetings | $345 per meeting |
| Half Day | $2,000 |
| Full Day | $3,450 |
| Other attendances | $345 per hour |
| Venue | Varies according to needs |
*where large groups are involved costs will be negotiated on a case by case basis
Who pays?Most often the costs are split equally between the parties. Occasionally other arrangements are made if everyone agrees.
Where do we meet?I work out of rooms in Manukau and Pukekohe in South Auckland. Mediations are conducted elsewhere in Auckland and in other centres by arrangement.
How long will it take?This varies from case to case and will often depend on the availability of the people involved. As mediation is a flexible process it can all happen quite quickly if this is what is wanted. The length of the meetings vary according to the nature of the issues and the number of people involved.
Will I be made to give up what I want in order to reach an agreement?Unlike Court or arbitration, in mediation you are not made to do anything you don't want to. Compromise does not mean giving up what is important to you.
What if I am not comfortable speaking for myself?Who speaks, and when, is something we deal with as we go along. You can have someone speak for you if this works for you and for the mediation process.
Can I have support people with me?This is usually possible as who attends the meetings is something that is negotiated and agreed upon, usually at the preliminary meetings.
Can we settle just part of a dispute?In the unusual case where full agreement is not reached, it is often possible to have at least agreed on some aspects of the dispute which will often pave the way to full settlement later on.
Do I need a lawyer?It is not necessary for you to be represented by a lawyer at a mediation. However it will often be helpful if you have access to legal or other advice. It is your decision how much or how little you would like your advisers to be involved. If you do not have the benefit of professional advisers it is my job to see you are not disadvantaged, even if others in the dispute have representation.
What sort of disputes do you mediate?All sorts! The mediation process I use works in all disputes - commercial & business - property - wills and estates - trusts - building & construction - family - relationship & other personal issues
When is a good time in a dispute to mediate?Any time. Whether the dispute has just arisen or whether you are at the courtroom door, mediation can be made to work for you.