Mediation & Dispute Facilitation

Independent mediation and facilitation services designed to deliver practical, cost-effective outcomes.

Disputes don’t always need to end in court. In many cases, the best outcomes are reached through structured, practical conversations, guided by an experienced, neutral facilitator. At McVeagh Fleming, we provide Auckland-based mediation services and dispute facilitation, working with both individual clients and other law firms to resolve disputes efficiently, privately, and with greater control over the outcome.

Mediation offers a faster, more cost-effective alternative to litigation, providing a confidential environment to resolve issues without the stress, delay, and expense of going to court.

Our mediators are experienced lawyers and experts in their fields. We understand the legal and commercial realities behind disputes, and how they are likely to unfold if they proceed further. That insight allows us to help parties make informed decisions, test positions realistically, and reach outcomes that are practical, balanced, and durable.

Why choose McVeagh Fleming

Independent and neutral

When acting as professional mediators, our role is impartial. We focus on facilitating productive discussion and fair outcomes for all parties.

Experienced

Our mediators are senior lawyers with deep experience across a wide range of disputes. This allows us to quickly understand the issues and keep discussions focused and commercially realistic.

Professional venues

We can host mediations in our well-appointed boardrooms across our three Auckland offices, providing a comfortable, private setting without the need for external venue hire.
WHY MCVEAGH FLEMING

Lawyers who understand both sides of the table

Our mediators are senior lawyers with extensive experience across commercial and civil disputes. They bring a practical, balanced approach to facilitating resolution.
NZ bar associationThe law associationAlly LawDoyles Awards1Doyles Awards2Doyles Awards3

How we can help

Support across the mediation process - whether you are acting as counsel or referring a matter to an independent mediator.

  • Independent mediation - Acting as neutral mediators appointed by agreement of the parties or through instructing counsel.
  • Preparation and strategy - Working with lawyers to prepare their client for mediation, including case positioning, key issues, and settlement framing.
  • Representation at mediation - Supporting clients at mediation alongside their legal counsel, ensuring a structured and productive process.
  • Behind-the-scenes support - Assisting counsel where clients attend mediation with or without direct legal representation.

Types of disputes

We are regularly engaged by individuals, businesses, and instructing counsel across a wide range of disputes, including:

  • Commercial and contract disputes
  • Shareholder and business relationship disputes
  • Employment matters
  • Trusts and estate disputes
  • Property and construction issues
  • Neighbour and boundary disputes

Mediation is particularly effective where parties are looking to resolve matters efficiently, preserve relationships, or avoid the cost and uncertainty of litigation.

If you are a legal practitioner considering mediation for a matter, we are happy to discuss suitability, process, or availability at any stage.

Talk to us about mediation

If you or your clients are considering mediation, or you have been invited to participate in one, we can help you understand your options and take the next step.

Complete the form and we'll be in touch.
Thank you! Your enquiry has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Frequently asked questions

What happens in a mediation?
Mediation is a structured process where an independent mediator helps parties work toward a resolution. Each party has the opportunity to explain their position, key issues are explored, and options are discussed in a constructive, guided environment.
What does the mediator do?
The mediator facilitates the discussion, keeps conversations focused, and helps parties explore possible solutions. They do not take sides or decide the outcome — the goal is to help the parties reach agreement themselves.
Is mediation confidential?
Yes. Mediation is a private and confidential process. What is discussed cannot be used in later court proceedings if a resolution is not reached.
Do I need a lawyer at mediation?
Not necessarily. Some people attend mediation on their own, while others choose to have a lawyer present or supporting them behind the scenes. We can assist in either capacity.
What if we reach an agreement?
If an agreement is reached, the terms are typically recorded in writing and can become legally binding.
What if we don’t reach agreement?
If a resolution isn’t reached, the parties can still explore other options, including further negotiation or court proceedings. The discussions in mediation remain confidential.
How long does mediation take?
Many mediations are completed within a day, although more complex matters may take longer or require multiple sessions.
*as at April 2026.

Team leadership

This is some text inside of a div block.
Headshot of Alissa Bell, Partner at McVeagh Fleming, professional style photo against a neutral background.
Alissa Bell
Partner
Family Law & Relationship Property
DDI:
MOB:  
021 498 494
E:
abell@mcveaghfleming.co.nz
Email
This is some text inside of a div block.
Profile photo of George Ireland, Partner at McVeagh Fleming, professional style photo against light background.
George Ireland
Partner
Relationship Property, Trusts & Estate Litigation
DDI:
09 306 6736
MOB:  
E:
gireland@mcveaghfleming.co.nz
Email
No items found.

It all starts with a conversation

Need help? Click the button below to request contact with someone from our team.