Civil court matter in west aust, we have a mediation date set, what is the best way to deal with it.?

I want to put to them that they believe we owe them money $1500 and I believe they owe us money in the amount of $3500 whats the best way to sort it out without it going to court and hr trying to claim costs, we cannot as we dont have a lawyer they do.

You don't necessarily need a lawyer (although it would help) but you do need to KEEP YOUR COOL during the mediation.

There will be a mediator present who is an impartial third party. They are not there to decide who is right and who is wrong, they are there to try to help the parties to reach an agreement without having to go to court.

The mediator will firstly introduce himself/herself and explain the process to everyone. They will then give each side the opportunity to explain (CALMLY) why they think they should be paid the money they say is owing. They will then probably ask each side to go to different rooms (if not, ask for this!). The mediator will then take time to talk to each side about their arguments and try to get each side to see the sense of coming to an agreement.

If you don't have a lawyer, please be very careful you do not interrupt the other side when they are explaining their case and do not start to attack and argue with the other side when you are explaining your case - it will only make things worse for everyone and will not help the mediator do his/her job.

Of course, there may not be an agreement possible, and, if this is the case, the mediator will sign a statement to that effect and file it with the court and your case will then be progressed to trial.


ps - what the hell did the last answer have to do with WA?

Court Mediation Program for Claims
up to $10,000




Court Mediation Program for Claims
up to $10,000


What is the Court Mediation Program?
If you are involved in a small claims action for claims up to $10,000 at certain courthouses in B.C., you may be able to resolve your disagreement by participating in a mediation.
The Court Mediation Program provides mediation services for some small claims disputes. The only cost to you is when you require the services of an interpreter or a signer. This Program receives funding from the Ministry of Attorney General. It is administered by a non-profit society.

http://www.ag.gov.bc.ca/courts/civil/sma...