Civil Mediation Services.
Civil mediation is a faster, more affordable and far less adversarial way to resolve a civil dispute – without the expense and uncertainty of going to court. Through Equitas Resolve, our accredited civil mediators create a confidential, impartial space where both parties can talk openly and reach a practical, lasting settlement. We work with individuals, businesses and their legal representatives across the UK.
What Is Civil Mediation?
Specialist Civil, Commercial & Workplace Mediation
Civil mediation is a voluntary process in which an independent mediator helps two or more parties settle a dispute themselves, rather than having an outcome imposed on them by a judge.
The mediator does not take sides and does not decide who is right; their role is to guide a constructive conversation and find common ground. It is one of the most effective forms of civil dispute resolution available, and in many cases the courts now expect parties to attempt it before proceeding to a hearing.
Where agreement is reached, it is set down in writing and becomes binding once signed.
- Civil Disputes We Mediate
- Property & Boundary Disputes
- disagreements over land, boundaries, access, rights of way and shared responsibilities.
- Neighbour Disputes
- noise, nuisance, fencing, hedges and other long-running neighbour conflicts.
- Landlord & Tenant Disputes
- deposits, repairs, rent arrears and disagreements over tenancy terms.
- Small Claims Disputes
- lower-value money claims that are quicker and cheaper to settle out of court.
- Consumer Disputes
- disagreements between customers and businesses over goods, services or contracts.
- Wills & Inheritance Disputes
- contested wills, estate disagreements and disputes between beneficiaries.
- Why Choose Mediation Over Court?
- Faster Resolution
- many disputes are settled in a single day, rather than the months or years a court case can take.
- Lower Cost
- typically a fraction of the legal fees involved in litigation.
- Legally Binding Outcomes
- a signed settlement agreement is enforceable like any other contract.
- You Stay in Control
- you shape the outcome together, instead of leaving it to a judge.
- Preserves Relationships
- invaluable where neighbours, family members or business partners must move forward afterwards.
How Civil Mediation Works
Workplace & Corporate Investigations
Civil mediation follows a simple, structured path. It begins with an initial conversation to understand the dispute and confirm that mediation is the right route. Once both parties agree to take part, the mediator prepares with each side before bringing them together – often resolving the matter in a single session.
Discussions are held on a “without prejudice” basis, which means nothing said can later be used against either party in court. If agreement is reached, the terms are written up and signed there and then, giving both sides a clear, enforceable resolution.
Why Choose Equitas?
- Independent & Impartial
- Professionally Accredited and Qualified
- Legally Informed & Ethically Driven
- Discreet, Professional, and Outcome-Oriented
- Nationwide Service
Our civil mediators are professionally accredited and work to recognised national standards, giving you confidence in an impartial, properly conducted process.
What is civil mediation?
Civil mediation is a confidential, voluntary process where an independent, accredited mediator helps parties resolve a civil dispute without going to court. The mediator does not take sides or impose a decision - they guide both parties towards a settlement they agree to themselves. It is commonly used for property, boundary, neighbour, landlord and tenant, consumer, small claims and inheritance disputes.
How does civil mediation work?
Most civil mediations follow a clear structure: an initial conversation to understand the dispute, a short period of preparation, then one or more mediation sessions where the mediator works between the parties to find common ground. Discussions are held on a "without prejudice" basis, so they cannot be used in court later. If agreement is reached, it is written up and signed on the day.
Is civil mediation legally binding?
The mediation process itself is voluntary and not binding, so either party is free to step away. However, once an agreement is reached and both parties sign a settlement agreement, that document is normally legally binding and enforceable like any other contract. Where court proceedings have already been issued, the agreed terms can often be recorded in a consent order.
How much does civil mediation cost?
Civil mediation is almost always far cheaper than taking a dispute to court, where legal costs can run into many thousands of pounds. The cost depends on the complexity of the dispute and the time involved, and is usually shared between the parties. You can see how we structure our fees on our Fees page, or contact us for a no-obligation quote.
How long does civil mediation take?
Many civil disputes are resolved in a single session, often within a day, compared with the months or even years a court case can take. More complex matters may need more than one session. We will give you a realistic timescale after the initial conversation.
What types of civil disputes can be mediated?
Almost any civil dispute can be mediated, including property and boundary disagreements, neighbour disputes, landlord and tenant issues, small claims, consumer complaints and disputes over wills and inheritance. If you are unsure whether your situation is suitable, a short initial conversation will confirm it.
Resolve Your Dispute the Right Way
Talk to an accredited civil mediator about your situation – confidentially and with no obligation.