Assisted negotiation is a process in which an independent third party represents or supports one side in discussions to help reach a practical agreement. Rather than negotiating directly, a person or business appoints an experienced adviser to manage communications, frame proposals, respond to demands, and guide the process toward resolution. This can be especially valuable when matters are complex, sensitive, or emotionally charged.

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Using a third party offers several benefits. It introduces objectivity, reduces tension between the parties, and helps prevent discussions from becoming personal or unproductive. An experienced negotiator can also identify priorities, assess risks, and structure proposals more strategically. This often leads to clearer communication, stronger bargaining positions, time savings, and better commercial outcomes. Assisted negotiation can also preserve relationships by creating distance between the dispute and the people involved.

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Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process in which an independent third party, known as a mediator, helps people in dispute work toward a mutually acceptable resolution. The mediator does not decide the outcome or impose a solution, but instead guides the conversation, clarifies issues, and encourages constructive negotiation.

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Mediation may be used in commercial, workplace, family, shareholder, property, or trust disputes, particularly where parties want to avoid the cost, delay, and uncertainty of court proceedings. It is often helpful when preserving relationships matters, when communication has broken down, or when parties are open to settlement but need structured support to reach agreement.