Disputes often turn ugly and it’s easy to threaten the other party with cries of ‘I’ll take you to court!’. However, in reality, the court process is lengthy and expensive, and the longer matters draw out, the more despondent you can begin to feel and the higher emotions can run. But this doesn’t have to be the case. Mediation can keep things simple, manageable and amicable. Here’s how.
What is mediation?
Mediation is about using clear communication to listen and understand everyone’s side in the matter. Once the true issues have been identified, your legal advisor can work on finding a compromise.
When could you need it?
- Divorce mediation is helpful when you and your partner are splitting up – especially when children are involved. You can discuss issues such as the distribution of property, child support and maintenance, and custody and visiting rights.
- Consider landlord-tenant mediation when you and your tenant or landlord are at odds. A common issue here, for landlords, is unpaid rent. But tenants can also request mediation when a landlord has failed to keep his or her side of the bargain, for example, by not maintaining proper, expected upkeep of the property.
- Employment mediation is advisable when you’re experiencing conflict with a former employee. These disputes can range from unfair termination or promotion being denied because of discrimination to harassment by either party. Nowadays, thanks to social media, it’s easier than ever for former employees to draw attention to disputes with a company. This can be damaging to a company’s external image as well as to company morale.
How to get in touch with a mediation service
Vodacom offers three legal insurance products, all of which offer a legal advisor and mediation (as well as other benefits such as assistance when signing a contract, managing debt and getting married). Click here to find out more about Vodacom’s legal services.
