Mediation

Mediation is an established process in which a mediator facilitates negotiation between two or more parties, to assist them in reaching an agreement. Attendance at mediation may be mandatory (required by law) or voluntary.  In either case the parties decide whether or not to resolve the dispute, and determine the terms of resolution. The mediator is independent and impartial.  Unlike an arbitrator or judge, the mediator does not impose any decision.  If the issues in dispute are resolved, the terms are incorporated into Minutes of Settlement.  Discussions and Minutes are typically confidential. Mediation may be used at any point in the evolution of conflicts or disputes, whether or not the issues are in litigation.  Mediation is popular because it can be cost-effective, timely, and responsive to the concerns of the parties.

The experience and skills of the mediator are critical in gaining the respect and confidence of the disputants and in leading constructive discussions. Mediators improve communication and assist disputants in exploring potential options for resolution.     

Leslie Macleod has been actively engaged in mediation since 1994.  While Assistant Deputy Attorney General at Ontario’s Ministry of the Attorney General, she guided the creation and implementation of mandatory mediation in Ontario. She has been a member of Toronto’s Local Mandatory Mediation Committee from its inception.  Since 1999, Leslie has mediated a wide variety of cases in areas including employment and labour relations, commercial matters, personal injury, healthcare, public policy, and social justice. A particularly challenging case involved mediation of a matter involving approximately 2,000 pensioners and multiple employers, in tandem with a class action that was mediated by a Superior Court Judge.   

975-A Elgin Street West, 

Suite 420

Cobourg, Ontario K9A 5J3

Tel: 416.489.4332

Fax: 905.342.9092

Email:leslie.h.macleod@gmail.com 

Leslie H. Macleod & Associates

Specialists in Conflict Resolution