Five of the leading law firms in Wales have come together to launch ‘Mediation Wales’, a mediation service designed to keep more civil and commercial dispute resolution work in Wales.

Hugh James, Morgan Cole, Berry Smith, Geldards and Darwin Gray have all agreed to a spirit of coalition as they will work together to provide mediation services in response to heightened demand for this increasingly popular method of dispute resolution. The service will be delivered by some of Wales’ most experienced mediators and litigation lawyers including Geraint Fowler of Morgan Cole, Richard Locke of Hugh James, Nick Parker of Berry Smith, Ian Herbert of Darwin Gray and Paul Hopkins of Geldards.

Speaking about the background to the group Richard Locke partner at Hugh James said: "In recent times we have noticed a huge shift towards mediation with the Court’s adopting an almost compulsory approach for disputing parties to explore all avenues of resolution. Forming a group from some of the region's most respected commercial practices seemed like the natural way to provide an accessible and professional solution."

The team behind Mediation Wales believes that financial pressures on businesses have undoubtedly led to a higher volume of disputes, and mediation has emerged as a successful method of achieving resolution in a constructive and cost effective manner. Mediation involves the coming together of warring parties to reach a mutually acceptable and constructive outcome. This has proved particularly important in the current climate where disputes have often arisen through unforeseen financial turmoil.

Geraint Fowler, an Associate at Morgan Cole LLP and co-founder of Mediation Wales, has considerable experience in successfully mediating cases since 2003. He says: "In this difficult commercial climate, and beyond, it is important for all parties involved in a dispute to consider the alternative methods of resolving matters between them in a cost effective manner. Add to that the flexibility, speed and confidential nature of the mediation process, then parties can often continue a successful business relationship going forward. It must also be remembered that, as mediators, we are not present to make a decision but to assist and guide the parties in reaching a mutually beneficial settlement."

Nick Parker, a Partner with Berry Smith LLP adds:"In the past, mediators have often been instructed from outside the region to try and resolve disputes. We believe that our service draws on expertise existing within Wales, and this will mean that the work can stay in Wales. We welcome instructions directly from organisations with disputes, or from law firms acting for clients with a dispute."     

The group will be working over the coming months to raise awareness of mediation as a genuine alternative to litigation amongst the legal and business community. Further information can be found at www.mediationwales.com