Will you do half-day sessions?

Yes, I am available to do half-day sessions, but I always recommend that counsel keep their calendars clear for the day in case we run overtime (provided I am available). It may take an extra hour or so to finish drafting those minutes of settlement, or hammer out the last facets of a deal. I am happy to continue working at an hourly rate, but would hate to walk away if the parties are on the cusp of settling any outstanding issues.

Do you open with joint sessions?

While I commonly conduct joint sessions to open a mediation, I know that they are not right for every dispute. The parties may have heightened sensitivities to one another, especially if there has been harassment or unprofessional conduct in the workplace for example. I will ask counsel prior if there are any sensitivities that I need to know about, and can adjust my approach accordingly. I also advise counsel to connect with each other through the day and discuss resolution strategies, even if the parties are unwilling or unable to meet face-to-face.

What if we cannot settle at mediation?

Not all files settle at mediation, but that does not mean that mediation needs to be the end of the road. Counsel often continue their without prejudice discussions after a mediation that does not settle, and deals are frequently struck in the days or weeks following. I make sure to follow up with counsel, and am able to provide a qualified opinion on a call with counsel if both sides are interested.

Maurice Ford Mediation

Maurice Ford is a mediator that puts people first.

Dispute resolution with a focus on bringing people together.

My approach

With my background in psychology, I bring to the table a unique understanding of the human elements in every dispute. With case law as a guide, I work with the parties and their counsel directly in order to bridge the gaps between them. I am not a lawyer, and I do not take any sides. Rather, I use my expertise and my experience to offer my best estimation of what it will take to bring the parties to a negotiated settlement.

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A comfortable setting for your clients

Providing you with a safe space to mediate
As a designated neutral, my role is not to take sides in any dispute, but to help guide both parties towards a mutually satisfactory resolution.

In-person and remote options

I would be pleased to work out of a local reporting centre in the Toronto area, at your offices if you have the necessary rooms available, or virtually over a videoconferencing platform.