Case studies

Partnership Dispute

Enquiry received from one of the three partners who had started an IT company together. The company had grown quickly and the partnership input and share of profits were in dispute. The partners had high conflict where one was becoming difficult to manage and had contacted a solicitor. The other two were extremely unhappy with the current situation and one had threatened to leave but all agreed that would like the matter resolved amicably without anyone having to leave the company.

The mediator was able to get an agreement over two sessions by focusing on key areas;

• Clarifying current partnership agreements
• Partnership roles responsibilities and exploring the changes required for the future structure
of the company
• Exploring possibility in the future of the company if a partner wished to leave
• Overall consensus on the company’s strategy and planning
• Addressing communication issues as company directors

Manger to Manager case dispute

Call received from HR of organisation that urgently needed an ongoing dispute between two management staff to be resolved as it was affecting the business and morale of the staff. The organisation was very busy working environment where resources were stretched to maximum. Both managers wanted to get it sorted as it was affecting their health and performance.

The mediator was able to get agreement on the day by focusing on key areas;

• Listening to both parties perspective on the issue
• Addressing communication difficulties
• Clarifying their objectives and that of the business
• Options and solution negotiation
• Mediator remaining impartial throughout negotiation

Separation dispute

Mr x contacted our service by e-mail as was going through separation with partner of 11years. They have two children from their relationship. Parents have a joint property together and a large mortgage. He works full time and she part-time. Both having communication difficulties over finance. Both want an amicable resolution to their issues. Emotions were high and both need support. They did not want to negotiate through a solicitor and wanted to keep a control on the costs.

The mediator was able to get a an agreement by focusing on key areas:

• Communication between them as parents
• The needs of each other and that of the children
• Option on division of assets and finance
• Management of emotions
• Empowering them to make decisions for a win-win situation