25 LAWYER MONTHLY ADR AWARDS 2024 Commercial Arbitration Lawyer of the Year CANADA What was it that led you to become an accredited mediator? After practicing corporate and commercial law for 21 years, it was time for a new challenge. Mediation’s growing acceptance as an alternative to expensive and time-consuming litigation provided me with an opportunity to practice as a full-time mediator. I have loved every minute and still do, even after 20 years and over 4,000 mediations. How would you describe your style of mediation? I believe that a mediator should be able to employ the best approach for a given situation, so I think having one style is potentially limiting. If the parties desire a more evaluative approach, then I am comfortable offering a neutral point of view. This is done privately with each party in a separate caucus meeting. My unbiased comments are intended to give the party just another point of view to consider, so that they can make the best decision on their settlement options. We talk about the benefits of settlement as opposed to the risks of trial. On the other hand, it is fine to be more facilitative when the parties desire structured conversations and discussions to move towards resolution. Above all, it is critical to bring a wide range of tools to each case and not to quit before every effort has been made to arrive at a settlement. Lately, I find that parties are looking to the mediator to break an impasse by offering a mediator’s proposal, where the mediator suggests a settlement on a double-blind basis. Can you tell us anything about your proudest career achievements to date? When COVID hit, I quickly saw the opportunity to transition my practice entirely to a Zoom-based model. After developing an effective online mediation process, our provincial ADR Institute asked me to co-author a practice guide for other mediators and lawyers and teach them how to mediate using this new virtual technology. After conducting over 600 mediations on Zoom, I believe virtual mediations can be as effective as in-person sessions. I am proudest that I have been able to achieve high rates of settlement using an online process. What is it that inspires you to achieve the best possible results for the parties you work with? It partly relates to my work ethic and persistence, which is to prepare thoroughly and bring my best to each mediation session. If I can help the parties exit the court system, or move closer to a resolution, then I feel I have added value to my retainer as a mediator and thereby derive personal satisfaction for a job well done. What does this award mean to you? This award is an important external validation of the skill, expertise and results I have worked hard for in my mediation practice. To be recognised by fellow professionals is an absolute honour and something that I will always treasure. What does the future hold for yourself and your practice? I have a keen personal interest in helping others resolve disputes in the fine art space. This award will help elevate my standing internationally as a neutral Canadian mediator. I now feel that I am even better positioned to offer my assistance to others around the globe. Tel: 416-518-8774 Email: jeff@jeffmorrismediation.com www.jeffmorrismediation.com Q Q Q Q Q Q
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