Whether your dispute resolves quickly or takes longer, there's life after resolution. Here's what happens next and how to protect yourself going forward.
If Agreement Is Reached
Settlement Agreements
Mediated agreements and negotiated settlements are documented in a legally binding settlement agreement. This document:
- Sets out what each party will do
- Includes timelines for performance
- Can be enforced in court if not followed
- Usually includes a release from further claims
Implementation
After settlement, someone needs to do what was agreed. We help ensure:
- Payments are made on time
- Property transfers happen correctly
- Business arrangements are documented
- Any ongoing obligations are clear
Confidentiality
Most settlement agreements include confidentiality provisions. Neither party can discuss the terms publicly. This protects reputations and allows both sides to move on without the dispute following them.
If No Agreement Is Reached
Sometimes disputes don't resolve at the first attempt. This isn't failure:
- Your options remain open: You can still pursue litigation
- Nothing said in mediation can be used in court: It's confidential
- You've often narrowed the issues: Making any future process shorter
- You understand their position better: Which helps with strategy
Cost Considerations
What Does Dispute Resolution Cost?
Mediation
Mediator fees are usually split between parties, and your lawyer's time to prepare and attend adds to this. Most mediations resolve in one or two days rather than months of court proceedings. We can explain what to expect for your specific situation.
Litigation
Court filing fees start at several hundred dollars, with additional fees for various stages. Legal costs vary significantly based on complexity, but a defended hearing usually involves substantial preparation time. The winning party may recover some costs from the losing party, but rarely all of them.
The real question: How does the cost of resolution compare to the value of your dispute and the cost of NOT resolving it?
We're transparent about costs upfront. In your first conversation, we'll give you a realistic estimate for your specific situation.
Moving Forward
Learning from Disputes
Every dispute teaches something. After resolution, consider:
- What led to this? Were there warning signs you missed?
- Were contracts clear enough? Would better documentation have prevented it?
- What would you do differently? Apply lessons to future dealings
Protecting Against Future Disputes
We can help you put systems in place:
- Better contracts with clearer terms and dispute clauses
- Mediation clauses requiring mediation before court
- Documentation practices to preserve evidence
- Business structuring to protect personal assets
What Carlile Dowling Does at This Stage
Whether your dispute resolves quickly or takes longer, we're with you until it's truly finished. Many clients return to us for future matters because they know how we work: straightforward advice, clear costs, and genuine care about outcomes.