Where Opposing Positions Find Common Ground

Mediation is well-suited to commercial disputes where the parties have an ongoing relationship or a shared interest in reaching a negotiated outcome. This includes contractual disagreements, partnership breakdowns, supplier disputes, and employment-related commercial matters. Disputes where one party seeks a precedent-setting decision are generally less suited to mediation.

Most commercial mediation sessions are completed within one day, though complex matters may require a follow-up session. Pre-mediation preparation, including consultation and position statement drafting, typically takes one to two weeks. Overall, matters that proceed through mediation are often concluded within four to six weeks of engagement.

The mediation process itself is voluntary and non-binding unless and until a settlement agreement is signed by both parties. Once signed, a settlement agreement is a binding contract enforceable under Singapore law. Singapore is also a signatory to the Singapore Convention on Mediation, which facilitates cross-border enforcement of mediated settlement agreements.

Mediation is a facilitated negotiation where the mediator assists parties in reaching their own agreement. The mediator does not decide the outcome. Arbitration is a more formal adjudicative process where an arbitrator hears evidence and submissions from both sides and issues a binding award. Arbitration is typically used when the dispute cannot be resolved through facilitated dialogue, or where the contract contains an arbitration clause.

Yes. Both mediation and arbitration proceedings are conducted on a confidential basis. Parties and their representatives are bound by confidentiality obligations. Communications made in the course of mediation cannot generally be used in subsequent legal proceedings. This is a significant practical advantage over litigation, which is a matter of public record.

Fees for arbitration representation depend on the complexity of the matter, the number of hearing days, and the volume of documents involved. We provide a fee estimate following an initial consultation and review of the dispute. Separate from our fees, parties are responsible for applicable institutional fees (e.g., SIAC filing fees) and arbitrator fees as determined by the administering institution.