Partner Richard Whitaker and solicitor Alison Bratley have both qualified as mediators.

Richard has become one of only a handful of accredited civil and commercial mediators in West Yorkshire. The process involved attendance at a 3 day mediation training course in London, a written examination and observing two mediations. Richard, a senior litigator with the firm, has been an enthusiastic advocate of mediation since the new procedures were formulated by Lord Woolf.

Commenting on his achievement, Richard said "Civil and commercial mediation is a highly successful and low cost alternative to using the courts in cases as diverse as personal injury, property damage and boundary disputes. Success rates of over 80% are already being achieved".

Alison, a family lawyer with over 5 years experience, has successfully qualified as a Resolution All Issues family mediator following an intensive 7 day training course in London run by Resolution First for Family Law, the recognized training provider. Susan Vesely, head of the Family Law Department, herself an experienced mediator, expressed her delight at Alison becoming a family solicitor mediator in the firm.

Alison is excited about her new role and sees family mediation as an alternative approach to how couples can deal with issues resulting from separation including future arrangements concerning their children and finances without the stress and delays of court proceedings. She adds "Unlike traditional negotiations which can take months if not years, usually all issues resulting from a relationship breakdown can be resolved in a couple of sessions saving time and money for those involved."

Senior partner, Nigel Wiggans congratulated the new mediators on their success, adding "Richard and Alison have studied hard and their achievements are well deserved. They have shown a high level of commitment and dedication which will benefit clients and the firm."

Contact Richard on 01924 484998 rwhitaker@hpandb.co.uk and Alison on 01924 472596 abratley@hpandb.co.uk.