Your hosts Zakia Khalid, Commercial Litigation Solicitor & Debt Recovery Trainer, with David Goldberg, Partner at EMW Law & Legal 500 Lead Mediator. Together, we unpack the real strategies, tips, and insights behind successful mediation.

From preparing for mediation, breaking deadlock, and debunking myths to choosing the right mediator and exploring online vs. in-person sessions, this podcast gives lawyers, businesses, and clients practical tools to resolve disputes without the stress of court. Smart, simple, and effective conflict resolution made clear. Tune in to learn how to navigate disputes with clarity, confidence, and calm.

Back to Basics: What Is Mediation Actually For?

New to mediation or looking for a refresher on how the process actually works?

In this episode of Calm the Conflict, David and Zakia take it back to basics. Whether you're navigating a long-running dispute or considering your first legal steps, we break down what mediation really is, how the process works, and why a single day can save you months of stress and thousands in legal fees.

We dive into the realities of the mediation room, from why it's not a court of law (and why you shouldn't waste time arguing legal points) to the golden rule of mediation: sharing the pain so everyone can move on with their lives. Plus, we discuss why getting that settlement agreement signed on the day is critical before second-guessing sets in.

In this episode, we cover:

· The Without Prejudice Rule: Why off-the-record negotiations let you think outside the box.

· The 1-Day Rule: Why a full day is the sweet spot for getting a deal done.

· Facts vs. Law: Why mediation focuses on finding a practical way out of a problem, not winning a legal argument.

· The Final Hurdle: Drafting and signing your settlement agreement before the momentum fades.

New to the show? If you're a new listener, make sure to check out our back catalogue of episodes for deep dives into legal strategies, special guest insights, and how to master the art of resolution!

Host Details:

Zakia Khalid - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.zakiakhalidlaw.co.uk⁠⁠

Zakia is a Debt Recovery Solicitor and Trainer to business finance and credit control teams, helping them understand and navigate the legal process of recovering unpaid invoices/debts to ensure cashflow is protected and bad debts are collected.

David Goldberg - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.emwlaw.com⁠⁠

David is a solicitor-mediator accredited by CEDR and recognised in the legal 500 for the last three years. He can mediate a whole array of matters face to face or over Zoom. Please contact David direct by email (⁠⁠david.goldberg@emwlaw.com⁠⁠) or via LinkedIn for more details, a CV or with any questions.

Thank you to our sponsors:

Right Here Creative - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.rightherecreative.co.uk⁠⁠

GD Associates - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.gdassociates.net⁠⁠

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