Mediation that provides happy endings for free

For the past ten years, courts have been trying to encourage mediation as an alternative to litigation. More recently the Government has taken the initiative as well and is now promoting its use. Not only is mediation cheaper, swifter and less contentious, but in cases where litigants are locked together in contracts, businesses or family relationships it makes life after the decision far less unpleasant.

This has also long been clear to the Solicitors Pro Bono Group, whose lawyers take on deserving cases without charge. Three years ago they began the LawWorks Mediation Scheme, a trial to see whether mediation was not a better way forward for those who would struggle to afford lawyers' fees. The conclusion, after about 25 test cases, is a resounding "yes".

John Hine and John Kendall, both retired City solicitors, set up and ran the trial. Often, Hine says, in cases involving small businesses, employment or tenants, mediation makes it possible for people to work and live together in better harmony and understanding than before the mediators stepped in.

Full story available at: http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/career_and_jobs/legal/article529862.ece