Mediation Services at Patey Mediations

At Patey Mediations, we take a team-based approach to dispute resolution that sets us apart. With over three decades of litigation experience on both the plaintiff and defence sides, Shawn brings substantive insight and settlement acumen to every file. But unlike most sole-practitioner mediators, our model is deliberately collaborative: every mediation is co-managed with Dan, our Online Dispute Resolution Coordinator, who remains actively involved throughout the day to support the process behind the scenes.

This dual-role structure enhances the efficiency, reliability, and overall experience of our mediations. While Shawn engages directly with the parties, navigating complex issues and guiding negotiations, Dan ensures everything else runs flawlessly—monitoring rooms, resolving tech issues in real time, and quickly reconnecting participants if there are connection drops or access problems. The result: fewer interruptions, faster transitions, and more productive use of everyone’s time.

In-Person and Hybrid Mediation Options

While virtual mediation remains the most convenient format for many clients, we also offer in-person and hybrid sessions across Ontario. We can host at counsel’s offices or neutral venues, and in hybrid settings—where some parties join in person and others remotely—our structure remains intact. We adapt our communication flow and breakout protocols so that all participants, regardless of location, are fully integrated into the process.

Pro Forma Mediation Services

For targeted disputes or time-sensitive matters, we provide pro forma mediations. These are time-limited, sharply focused sessions designed for experienced counsel looking to advance files quickly—whether resolving single-issue LAT claims, compliance-driven settlement discussions, or cases where positions are already well crystallized. These sessions are lean by design but remain structured and fair.

Secure, Seamless Technology

Our mediations are conducted using an encrypted Zoom platform, with password-protected access and fully private breakout rooms. Each party’s breakout room is isolated and secure—ensuring confidentiality at every stage. Dan oversees the platform from start to finish, resolving connection issues, admitting latecomers, adjusting breakout room configurations, and ensuring the mediator is never pulled away from the negotiation to handle tech problems. No tech expertise is required on your end. Our setup is turn-key and frictionless—designed for busy litigators and institutional clients who need focus, not frustration.

The Human Element

Some mediations demand more than legal insight—they require emotional intelligence. In personal injury claims, estate disputes and employment terminations, parties often arrive with grief, frustration, or distrust. We recognize that challenging plaintiffs or emotionally charged circumstances can strain the process.

Shawn brings a calm, measured approach to difficult personalities and emotionally reactive parties, helping counsel preserve their relationships while keeping the mediation on track. Dan’s presence adds further support: as a non-legal, grounded voice in the room, he often assists with practical communication and defuses tension when tech issues or emotions run high.

Together, we manage not just the legal dynamics—but the human ones.

Referral-Based Flexibility

We welcome long-term relationships with firms, insurers, and legal departments. Repeat-referral clients are encouraged to inquire about preferred fee arrangements. We’re always prepared to discuss flexible pricing models for ongoing work or high-volume users, recognizing the efficiencies that come with familiarity.

Practice Areas

We mediate a wide range of civil disputes, including:

• Personal injury and insurance claims (MVA, occupiers’ liability, disability, subrogation)
• Estate litigation (will challenges, dependent support, executor disputes, passing of accounts)
• Medical negligence and health law
• Real estate and property damage litigation
• Professional negligence (legal, accounting, engineering)
• Employment law (wrongful dismissal, workplace disputes)
• Commercial litigation (contract disputes, shareholder disagreements, partnership dissolutions)
• Complex multi-party claims and companion actions

At Patey Mediations, our collaborative model, high service standards, and litigation-informed approach are built to drive files forward to resolution. We deliver a reliable, structured mediation experience that reflects the way modern dispute resolution should be practiced—responsive, secure, and results-oriented.