Mediation in Employment Disputes

Q: How does mediation work in employment disputes?

Mediation involves an impartial mediator who helps both sides reach agreement without going to tribunal. It can be used before a claim is made, as part of Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) conciliation, or in judicial mediation if a claim has already been filed.

Q: What are the advantages of mediation?

Mediation is faster, less expensive, and less stressful than litigation. It allows both parties to focus on practical solutions, which is particularly useful when an employment relationship is ongoing. It can also cover issues outside strict legal claims, such as reputational concerns or agreed references.

Q: When is mediation not appropriate?

Mediation may not be suitable if you want to enforce procedures through a tribunal, if the case involves misconduct that must go through formal processes, or if one party refuses to compromise.

Q: How can Irwin Mitchell help?

We advise whether mediation is the right option for your organisation and represent you throughout the process. If litigation is unavoidable, our team will help you prepare a strong case and minimise disruption.

Not every workplace disagreement needs to reach tribunal. Mediation offers a faster, more cost-effective way to resolve issues, cut disruption, and protect relationships.

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Legal advice on mediation in employment disputes

Our employment lawyers guide you through every stage of mediation, from informal discussions to formal judicial processes. Whether you want to defuse conflict early or avoid the expense of full litigation, we enable you to access solutions that secure your interests.

We can support with:

Negotiations before a claim is issued
Acas early conciliation and settlement agreements
Judicial mediation during an employment tribunal
Resolving ongoing workplace disputes while protecting key relationships.

You also benefit from specialist multi-industry experts who know when mediation is the right route, and when you need to take decisive legal action instead.

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Speak to a Legal Partner

Our team support you to navigate complexity, seize opportunity and move forward with legal clarity.

Fergal Dowling

Managing Partner - Business Services Group

Find out more

Meet our experts

Fergal Dowling

Managing Partner - Business Services Group

Find out more

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Frequently Asked Questions

Our employment law team allows employers to use mediation to resolve disagreements quickly, reduce cost, and avoid proceedings. Here are answers to some common questions:

How does mediation work in employment disputes?

What are the advantages of mediation?

When is mediation not appropriate?

How can Irwin Mitchell help?

Our commitment to you

Our experts always start by listening, so we understand what matters most from day one.

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You will always get straightforward, honest advice, with regular updates to keep you clear on the way forward.
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Whether you’re navigating complex personal situations or business decisions, we take the time to understand your world and what’s at stake.

Other Employment Law services

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Settlement Agreements
End employment relationships on clear, fair terms. Draft and negotiate agreements that shield your commercial position while reducing future legal risk.
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