Sometimes a misunderstanding arises not because of the law, but due to a sense of injustice and things left unsaid.
Mediation is a way of resolving a conflict through conversation, with the help of a neutral person – the mediator. Unlike a court, in mediation, no one delivers a verdict. The goal of mediation is not to determine who is right, but to help the parties find a solution that meets the real interests and needs of both sides.
Instead of waiting for someone else's decision, mediation allows you to shape the solution yourself – quickly, discreetly, and at a lower cost than in court.
For example, two people may have a disagreement over property, business cooperation, goods delivery, inheritance, or co-ownership. In mediation, each party first has the opportunity to present their view of the situation in a safe and confidential environment. Only when and if both parties are ready, the conversation proceeds with the help of a neutral person – the mediator – with the aim of finding a solution that will be acceptable to both sides.
An agreement reached in mediation is binding on the parties that have signed it. If desired by the parties, it can also be made in such a way that it has the status of an enforceable document.
Mediation offers a practical way to reach a solution without a lengthy process and additional tensions. Instead of lasting for years like a civil procedure, in most cases, it is resolved in just a few meetings. It often helps preserve relationships – because, unlike in court, mediation doesn't seek a winner and a loser, but rather a mutual agreement.
Mediation is especially useful when there is a long-standing relationship between the parties that is worth preserving – whether it's business, family, or property-related – but over time, it has become strained and needs to be resolved in a clear and sustainable manner.
Imagine two companies that have been working together for years but have parted ways due to differing interpretations of a contract. In a court proceeding, both would lose time, money, and potentially future collaboration. In mediation, they can agree on a solution that allows them to continue their business – without severing the relationship and without a lengthy process.
Mediation does not mean giving up your own views but finding a solution that is realistic, sustainable, and fair to everyone involved.
Many people turn to mediation only after months or even years of being convinced that the court will "resolve the matter." And indeed, they are often right. However, sometimes even after a final court ruling, the dispute is not truly resolved: the decision exists, but it can't be enforced, relationships remain strained, and time and money are lost.
Mediation doesn't require you to give up your stance or beliefs. It simply provides the chance to reach a solution more quickly, with greater control and less risk, instead of a lengthy process. An agreement is not a concession – it’s a way to achieve what truly matters to you, without the loss that often accompanies a court victory.
Mediation takes place in a few simple steps:
1. Process initiation – Mediation can be proposed by either party, regardless of whether there is already a court proceeding. It is enough for both parties to agree to try to talk.
2. Conversation assisted by a mediator – The meeting is held in a confidential and safe environment. The parties present their views, needs, and suggestions, and the mediator helps them look at the issue from different perspectives.
3. Agreement and settlement – Once the parties reach an agreement, a written settlement is prepared and signed by both sides. If they wish, they can have it notarized by a public notary.
The entire process usually takes less time than a court procedure – sometimes it can be completed in just one meeting.
No. Mediation is a voluntary process and can only begin if both parties agree to participate.
In that case, mediation cannot take place, but it often happens that the initially reluctant party changes their mind when they realize it can save them time, money, and energy.
No. Everything said in mediation is considered confidential and cannot be used in any subsequent court proceedings.
The duration depends on the complexity of the matter and the willingness of the parties to reach an agreement. In many cases, the dispute is resolved in one to three meetings.
Mediation is used in many situations – from business and contractual relationships to property and inheritance matters.
Two companies, let’s call them Alfa and Beta, had successfully collaborated for years. After a misunderstanding regarding price and delivery deadlines, their cooperation ended and both considered filing a lawsuit. In mediation, they had the opportunity to clearly express their interests and view the situation from a broader perspective. They succeeded in reaching an agreement that resolved the dispute and allowed them to continue their business without the need for a court process."
Relatives Marko and Ante inherited the family home. Due to differing wishes regarding the use and value of their shares, their discussions became tense, and communication was almost severed. In mediation, with the help of a neutral person, they were able to agree on a division method that was fair and achievable for both of them. This allowed them to avoid a lengthy court process while also preserving the family relationship that had been built over the years.
Such solutions are often lasting because they are created and accepted by the parties themselves – not imposed by a third party who is completely uninterested in their situation.
I believe people are more likely to reach an agreement when someone truly listens to them.
My task in mediation is to help facilitate that conversation – calmly, clearly, and with respect for each party involved.
In mediation, there is no pressure or conflict – there is time and space for discussion, where each party can express themselves without fear or interruption.
Many people who experience mediation say that, in addition to solving their problem, it was the first time they felt truly heard.
Besides acting as a mediator, my office also provides legal support to parties involved in mediation before another mediator – serving as their lawyer to protect their interests, assist with preparation, and guide them through the entire process.
If you’re wondering whether mediation is the right approach for resolving your case, or simply want to learn more about the process, feel free to contact me. I’d be happy to explain how the process works and help you assess whether mediation is a good fit for your situation.
