Judicial Mediation- Employment Tribunal

[Finetoday]

I’m currently going through an ET based on discrimination (sex and disability).

I have just had prelim hearing. Respondents very slick lawyer wanted to make it clear that they were keen on undergoing Judicial Mediation.

I am a LiP so am frantically searching what JM is.
Why are they do keen on this given they’ve not really engaged with ACAs and this would be extra effort and therefore expense ?

Any advice sorely needed 🙁

A few quick links:

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5b05377a40f0b61f8b37aba7/t612-eng.pdf

hwww.lawsociety.org.uk/public/for-public-visitors/common-legal-issues/workplace-problems/judicial-mediation-at-an-employment-tribunal

https://littletonchambers.com/judicial-mediation-in-the-employment-tribunal-how-to-make-the-most-of-it/

It could be as simple as wanting to appear reasonable to the judge, or it could be a delaying tactic. It could also be that they genuinely feel that it would facilitate a settlement and avoid the cost of preparing for a final hearing - usually JM is only considered for multi day cases, which can become very expensive.

I wouldn’t view it as a bad thing though, JM can be very helpful if both parties engage with the process properly.

Thanks @Bromptotoo that was really useful.

@MrsPinkCock the cost of their representation will be a massive factor as they are not a big company. It would make sense for them to avoid the 5 day ET in the summer.

Any idea what requests I can make at the JM besides negotiating on the settlement figure ? I’ve read I’m never going to get an apology - is that correct ? I really want the reference I deserve not the ‘prefer not to say’ rubbish they recently gave.