Resources and frequently asked questions

Clear answers about dispute support and mediation

Understand when to involve Cosil, how the process works and which starting point may suit your situation.

You do not need to read every question before contacting us.

Getting started

Questions about working with Cosil

When should I contact Cosil Solutions?

Contact Cosil when a dispute or complaint is no longer moving forward, the facts or documents are difficult to follow, or you need an independent view before deciding what to do next.

Do I need to know which service I need?

No. Start by explaining what has happened, what has already been tried and what you need to achieve. Cosil will identify whether consultancy, case support, mediation, a Strategic Dispute Consultation or another route appears appropriate.

Can Cosil help before mediation or formal proceedings?

Yes. Earlier support can clarify the facts, organise the evidence, identify risks and preserve more options before positions become fixed.

What happens after I make an enquiry?

Cosil reviews the information provided and aims to respond within three working days. If Cosil can assist, the proposed work, responsibilities, timescale and cost will be explained before an engagement begins.

What is included in the complimentary call?

The 20-minute Initial Enquiry Call helps us understand broadly what the matter concerns, establish whether Cosil may be able to assist and identify the next step. It does not include detailed case assessment, document review, substantive strategic advice or written recommendations.

How much will substantive support cost?

The 45-minute Dispute Readiness Assessment is £250 and does not include document review or a written summary. The Strategic Dispute Consultation starts from £495 and includes advance review of up to 20 pages, a 30-minute live consultation and a brief written summary. Independent Case Reviews, Mediation and wider organisational work are scoped separately. We explain the proposed scope and fee before work begins.

Compare consultation options

Can I get support if the other party will not engage?

You can enquire about support to understand your position, organise your information and prepare for your next step. Mediation requires the parties to participate and is considered separately from consultancy and case support.

Mediation

Questions about the mediation process

What is mediation?

Mediation is a private and confidential process in which an independent mediator helps the parties discuss the issues and explore whether they can agree a workable solution.

Does the mediator decide the outcome?

No. The parties remain responsible for deciding whether an agreement is reached and what it contains. The mediator manages the process but does not decide the dispute.

Is mediation always the right starting point?

No. Some matters need further preparation, document review or another professional route before mediation can be useful. Suitability is considered before a mediation is arranged.

What happens if mediation does not resolve everything?

The parties may resolve all issues, some issues or none. Even where a full agreement is not reached, mediation can clarify the remaining points and help the parties understand what needs to happen next.

Working with professional teams

Collaboration and referrals

Can Cosil work alongside my solicitor or existing team?

Yes. Cosil works in partnership with law firms and authorised legal professionals, as well as in-house teams, consultants and other advisers. The role and communication arrangements are agreed at the outset.

Can a professional refer a matter to Cosil?

Yes. A law firm, organisation or professional adviser can refer a suitable matter for dispute consultancy, case support, organisational support or an independent mediation appointment.

What types of disputes does Cosil support?

Examples include business, contract and partnership disputes; banking, insurance and financial service complaints; payment and debt disagreements; consumer, organisational and education complaints; construction and contractor matters; workplace and community disputes; probate and inheritance disagreements; and family disagreements following separation. Housing and property support includes repairs and disrepair, tenancy breaches, antisocial behaviour, service charges and major works, leasehold and freehold matters, and neighbour or boundary disagreements. We assess the appropriate scope and role before taking on a matter.

Useful starting points