Why me as a mediator?
My credibility as a seasoned legal expert is the principal reason (see accolades and peer recognition below).
As well as participating in thousands of negotiations and mediations, I have been fortunate enough to have managed one of the largest volume personal injury practices in Queensland. I have well-honed expertise in relationship management (necessary to achieve efficient and fair outcomes) as well as a deep understanding the arguments and levers which are important in any settlement dynamic. Mediation is not just about the back and forth with offers (and making small talk!), rather it's about a deep understanding of the parties, the interests at play and the broader industry dynamics. With 26-year of post admission experience, I have practised in all areas of personal injury litigation, including workers compensation, motor vehicle claims, public liability and medical negligence. I have also developed a niche expertise in respiratory diseases including claims in the Dust Diseases Tribunal. I have acted in high value and sensitive multi-party commercial litigation, coverage disputes and employment matters including claims for breach of privacy.
As a former Managing Partner, I am passionate about flourishing teams, and the dynamics of the workplace. It is this lived experience and expertise which I bring to workplace mediations.
I started legal practice before the implementation of pre-court procedures, and have extensive experience as a trial solicitor. Although I understand well the vagaries of the trial process, I am of the view that litigation is the important context and framework. In circumstances where such few matters proceed to court, the main game is (and always will be) negotiation. That is why it is important to retain a mediator who is not only a legal expert in litigation, but also an expert in negotiation and relationship management.
Although legal expertise is an important given, skills that are sometimes incorrectly classified as 'soft skills' are equally important. These include the ability to empathise, to listen, to understand various perspectives and remain impartial as a process facilitator. Cultural sensitivity, flexibility and problem-solving skills are of utmost importance, as is patience (not always a natural attribute associated with youth or the legal profession!).
