Mediation and arbitration lawyers
Mediation and
arbitration
There are more effective ways to resolve your commercial disputes outside of court. Our team of mediation and arbitration lawyers can guide you down the right path and navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
Speak with our team todayThe Law
Australasia
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2024 | 2023 | 2022
2021 | 2020 | 2019
The Law
Australasia
Pursuit of
Excellence Award
Doyle’s guide
award
2024 | 2023 | 2022
2021 | 2020 | 2019
How we can help you
Mediation and arbitration are two distinct dispute resolution methods that help parties avoid the cost and stress of court proceedings. Mediation encourages collaboration and mutual agreement, while arbitration offers a more structured process that leads to a binding decision. Each has its place depending on the nature of the dispute, and our mediation and arbitration lawyers can help you determine which is right for your situation.
Here’s how we can help:
- A mediator is an independent third party
- A mediator will assist parties to identify matters in dispute
- A mediation will consider options for settlement
- Mediation can enable settlement solutions that a Court cannot
- Arbitration is more structured and formal than mediation
- Arbitration can be more flexible and efficient than litigation
- Arbitration can often be finalised sooner than litigation
How does mediation and arbitration work
Many courts now require parties to mediate with a Registrar, to resolve or narrow the issues in dispute before incurring the cost of trial. In WA, almost all Supreme Court and District Court matters must go through a mediation process before they can move on to a trial and a final hearing.
Mediation is an opportunity for the parties and their lawyers to talk through a problem and reach their own agreement, with the support of a mediator, and allows parties to achieve outcomes that may not be available at trial.
Parties are not bound to settle at mediation, and it can occur multiple times for any dispute. An advantage of mediation is that it allows the possibility of all parties getting some form of outcome, where a final hearing or trial is usually just win or lose.
A mediator will speak directly to parties, and anything said will be confidential. Each party will have an opportunity to explain their position. Options for how to settle or agree are developed and explored and mediation can often take an entire day, or even longer
Unlike mediation, Arbitration involves the appointment of an independent third party (the arbitrator) to make a decision on the dispute. This method requires each party to present their case and their evidence in an arbitration proceeding. Typically, the parties will also agree to treat the arbitrator’s final decision as binding by agreement, often well before the dispute arises because it is contained in a dispute resolution clause in their terms and conditions or other contracts.
The Australian Centre for International Commercial Arbitration (ACICA) is a dispute resolution body that offers arbitration and mediation services. A commercial contract can specify that ACICA will administer a mediation or arbitration session, meaning the relevant ACICA Rules will apply to the proceedings.
Our mediation and arbitration lawyers are very experienced in this area of law and can guide you through either process, handling all aspects of the dispute and helping you gain the right outcome.
How we can help if you’re
facing a commercial dispute
Need advice on your mediation or arbitration options? We’re just a phone call away
Our team of mediation and arbitration lawyers are here to guide you. Take the first step towards resolving your legal matter in a smart and efficient way with Solomon Hollett Lawyers.
Our client testimonials
From individuals to families, from startups to large corporates, professional groups to charitable foundations – we’ve stood beside a diverse range of clients helping them best navigate their legal journeys. Here’s what just some of them have to say.
“I cannot thank Matthew and Morgan enough for their dedication and support during one of the hardest times of my life. From the very beginning, they were not only incredibly knowledgeable and strategic, but also deeply moral, always upholding integrity while achieving outstanding results. I always felt heard, supported, and confident in their guidance. Their trustworthiness gave me peace of mind, and they were always available when I had questions or concerns. If you need a lawyer who truly cares and fights for you, I highly recommend Solomon Hollett Lawyers.”
Client wishes to remain anonymous
“I cannot recommend Solomon Hollett Lawyers enough. The team were fantastic from start to finish. My elderly mother recently lost my father and there were some delicate matters to finalise. From receptionists to the Partners, my mother was treated with respect, kindness, understanding and given every assistance and courtesy she could want. We were informed every step of the process and they made it 100% stress free. Their fees were more than reasonable, especially as my mother is a pensioner. If you are looking for a firm that truly cares, that you can trust to do what you require, when you require it and within budget look no further than the team at Solomon Hollett Lawyers, they’re fantastic!”
Sheryl
“The last few months have caused a significant amount of stress for me around an estate matter. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I searched for legal assistance since I have never had to use the services of a law firm before. Other Google reviews led me to Solomon Hollett Lawyers where I found Brandon to be very helpful and knowledgeable. Just knowing that he was supporting me in this matter made all the difference and helped to facilitate a positive outcome.”
Vicki
“From our first interaction, I knew Andrew Bower was the right lawyer for my property dispute case. His extensive knowledge and clear communication transformed what seemed like a complex issue into something manageable and understandable, giving me the confidence to move forward. Throughout the entire process, Andrew was consistently diligent, attentive, respectful, and compassionate. I always felt heard and supported every step of the way. He made time to address my concerns and provided reassurance that greatly eased my mind. Not only did he handle the legal complexities with professionalism, but he also alleviated the emotional stress that came with it. Andrew was a true blessing in my corner, fighting for me with unwavering dedication. The favourable outcome was a direct result of his expertise and commitment. I truly believe that not all lawyers are created equal—Andrew stands head and shoulders above the rest. His blend of legal brilliance, compassion, and relentless dedication makes him an exceptional lawyer. I’m beyond grateful for his service and support, and I would wholeheartedly recommend him without any hesitation.”
Thao
“Great experience dealing with the team from Solomon Hollett hired to represent me in a contested estate Will in which I was the executor. Best described as down to earth interactions with good comms and professionalism maintained throughout, a positive result was achieved and I have no hesitation in recommending the team.”
Thomas
“Almost two years after winding up my business I received an erroneous letter of demand for close to $200k from a Global supplier which came with a lien on my home. I engaged Andrew from Solomon Hollett based on a recommendation and from the outset I have been nothing but impressed. The communication from Andrew and his team has been prompt and concise. Unfazed by the unlimited resources and size of the plaintiff Andrew was able to negotiate a settlement of less than 5% and obviously have the lien on my home removed. Should you find yourself in need of legal services I have no hesitation in recommending Andrew and his team.”
David
“I have engaged the legal services of Solomon Hollett on a couple of occasions. They have always been professional and have obtained the best outcome possible in every situation. They also treat each matter with care and consideration for their clients. I can highly recommend them.”
Heather
“We had a great experience with Brandon from Solomon Hollett. From the first phone call, I could tell that he had a solid grasp of our situation and what we wanted to achieve. He was very helpful and very responsive throughout our dealings with him. He got everything done in a timely way and we’re very happy with the result. Definitely recommended! Thanks, Brandon :)”
AJ
“We are very grateful to Craig for his outstanding work. Craig was highly professional, clear about his role and what he could do for us and he handled our case with an incisive precision. Craig fully and respectfully explained the processes and complexities of the case in a language that made sense to us, and he outlined in detail steps that we had to take. What impressed us most was his willingness to understand the complexities of our Church structures and laws and take on board our principles and concerns. We cannot recommend Craig highly enough.”
Jaine
“Matthew Gunn was highly recommended to my wife and I. We both needed to renew our old out-dated Wills. We found Matthew to offer very good advice, he also is a good listener and once he gathered the details and our wishes he then gave valuable legal suggestions to ensure we had new Wills that suited our complex needs. Our new detailed legal Wills are exactly the way we wanted it. We can now rest easy knowing that should something happen to one or both of us, our Wills will ensure our investments and wishes are managed the way we requested. If you need legal advice or Wills drawn up, I would recommend you make an appointment to see Matthew Gunn.”
Paul
“I had an exceptional experience with Solomon Hollett Lawyers, particularly thanks to Annabel and Brandon. Annabel was my primary contact throughout my family provisions claim, and her professionalism and honesty made a significant difference. She was always open and transparent, ensuring I understood each step of the process. Brandon, as the director, provided valuable insights and guidance that further reinforced my trust in their team. Both of them set realistic expectations, which helped me navigate a challenging situation with confidence. I truly felt supported and informed every step of the way. I highly recommend Solomon Hollett Lawyers for anyone needing expert legal assistance!”
Alanah and Jarrad
“We engaged Solomon Hollett to represent us (executors) in a challenging and frustrating estate matter. We cannot praise both Morgan Solomon and Matthew Gunn highly enough for the extremely professional and understanding approach they took and their attention to detail. Their knowledge of both the law and estate procedures was second to none and their communication skills were outstanding. We settled the matter at mediation thanks in large part to their support and guidance. I would very strongly recommend them.”
Ian and Alan
“Many thanks to Brandon Hetherington who helped us with a recent property transaction matter and achieved a favourable outcome. Brandon was referred to us by an interstate law firm as a matter of urgency. We were and are immensely grateful that he was exceptionally professional, efficient, knowledgeable, informative, experienced, responsive and respectful in assisting us. His advice gave us extra confidence in dealing with the matter and we were fully satisfied with the results. We cannot thank Brandon enough. We give 10 out of 5 stars for Brandon, and highly recommend his services and Solomon Hollett Lawyers.”
LF
“Morgan is absolutely outstanding. Thorough, considerate and clearly communicates, but also works with compassion. He was so reassuring and helpful we couldn’t believe that treatment from a lawyer. Cannot speak highly enough of him and the work they do.”
Kristen
“What an amazing team of professionals who are also caring, contactable, approachable. Thank you so much.”
Peter
Discover the Solomon
Hollett difference
Personalised legal solutions
We understand the complexities you’re facing. Your litigation needs are unique and nuanced, so we tailor our legal strategies to align perfectly with your specific circumstances, guiding you with precision and dedication every step of the way.
Comprehensive legal knowledge
Rest assured that you’re in capable and experienced hands. Our extensive expertise across diverse legal arenas ensures that we’re equipped to guide you through the most pressing litigation challenges and opportunities, from commercial law and contract disputes to partnership conflicts and beyond.
Client-centric approach
Your peace of mind matters to us. We prioritise clear communication and steadfast support, focusing on securing outcomes that restore your calm and confidence.
Proven track record
Count on us to stand by you. Renowned for our commitment to excellence and a legacy of success in commercial litigation, we’re here to protect your interests with proven strategies that work.
Accessible and timely legal services
We’re here when you need us. With responsive service and flexible scheduling, we ensure that you receive legal guidance promptly, accommodating your needs and easing your stress during critical times.
Transparent and up-front
We’re upfront about the cost of what we do, so you know what you are committing to. We focus on the proportion of the fees to the value of the matter, making the return on your investment easy to ascertain from the get-go.
Guiding you through business disputes
How can you avoid or minimise commercial disputes? Get our insights on successful dispute resolution.
Commercial disputes and litigation guide
If you’re a business owner or decision-maker in Western Australia, this is for you. Our updated guide addresses your questions about the most effective methods for safeguarding against commercial disputes and managing them if they arise. It also covers various strategies for resolving conflicts and, in cases where litigation becomes the only way forward, outlines the process.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between mediation and arbitration?
Is mediation legally binding?
Why choose arbitration over going to court?
Can mediation or arbitration be used in any dispute?
Talk to us about mediation and arbitration
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