What is Hybrid mediation?
Hybrid mediation is one of the NCDR (non-court dispute resolution) options available for clients with disagreements to resolve. It is a combination of the civil and family models of mediation; offered by experienced mediators with additional training. In hybrid mediation, you will typically be in separate rooms for much of the mediation, which means you can confidentially explore options with the mediator, before committing to making proposals. You can also involve your lawyer directly in the process.
When might Hybrid mediation be the best option?
It is especially useful when:
- there is high conflict
- one or both clients feel unable to be in the same room
- there is an imbalance of power
- one or both clients find it difficult to have a voice
- there are concerns about domestic abuse
- you would benefit from having support in decision-making
- there is specific disagreement(s) for which legal advice would be useful
Other things to consider
Hybrid mediation may cost more than traditional family mediation, but there are many advantages, including:
- Quicker: the mediation will usually be concluded on one day rather than a number of sessions over weeks/months.
- Cost-effective: involving lawyers directly in the mediation meetings can save additional expenditure by reducing duplication of effort.
- Reduces conflict: Hybrid mediation enables a calmer, solution-focused approach with an emphasis on outcomes.
- Other professionals, such as neutral financial experts and family consultants, can also be involved.
- Certainty of outcome: there is less risk of someone changing their mind after the session(s) end. Outcome documents can be processed on the day; by lawyers who have been involved throughout and understand the reasons for the agreement reached.