The COVID-19 Response as a Mediation Blueprint for the Future? Mediators’ Perspectives on the Shift to Remote Mediation in Civil Disputes

David Sixsmith, Assistant Professor, University of Northumbria

Keywords: Mediation, Online, Remote, Experiences, Effectiveness, Efficiency

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a rapid acceleration towards methods of dispute resolution which enabled disputants to participate remotely. Drawing on data obtained from a survey of mediators registered with the Civil Mediation Council across England and Wales, this paper provides an insight into mediators’ experiences of conducting mediations online, including whether the necessary transition to remote mediation has had any impact on the number of mediations conducted, rates of settlement, and perceived levels of satisfaction of mediating parties. This data is used to establish whether there is a future for online mediation post COVID-19 and, if so, whether any areas of common best practice can be identified to enhance the way in which online mediations are conducted.

Author Biography: David Sixsmith is Assistant Professor, School of Law, University of Northumbria. 

Publication Date:  15 April 2023

Citation: Sixsmith, D (2023)  The COVID-19 Response as a Mediation Blueprint for the Future?  Journal of Mediation Theory and Practice, 7-1, 35-56. 

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