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Do I have to take my dispute to mediation?

Andrew Koffman

In an article in December 2023 we reported on the Court of Appeal’s decision which, for the first time, gave the courts the power to compel parties to mediate. 

Court of Appeal backs compulsory alternative dispute resolution (ADR) | Bermans 

There have been further developments since then.  In October 2024, changes to the court rules (CPR) were made to give the court the specific power to order the parties to take part in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) such as mediation. 

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Saffa Ahmed

Paralegal

Saffa joined Bermans in July 2025 and is a Paralegal in our Litigation team in Manchester.

She assists in property disrepair cases, commercial leases and contract disputes. She often helps prepare bundles, take counsel notes and various other tasks.

Saffa studied Law at the University of Leeds, graduating in 2024.

Outside of work, Saffa enjoys reading and going to the gym. She also enjoys playing tennis with friends on a weekend (when the weather is nice!).

E: saffa.ahmed@bermans.co.uk

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Elizabeth Wilkinson

Partner

Elizabeth joined Bermans in March 2025 as Partner in the Litigation and Dispute Resolution team.

Elizabeth has over 25 years’ experience of helping clients resolve disputes efficiently and cost effectively.  Elizabeth specialises in advising on the rights and obligations of directors and shareholders and is particularly experienced in shareholder disputes and claims involving directors’ duties and warranties in sale and purchase agreements.

She advises clients on minimising risk and protecting the value of their businesses, enforcing restrictions in employment contracts and sale agreement when needed. She is experienced in securing urgent solutions such as injunctions and asset freezing orders.

Elizabeth also advises on partnership disputes, commercial contracts and negligence by professionals such as accountants or surveyors.

She has advised a wide range of clients during her career from SMEs and OMBs to large corporates and PLCs as well as individuals.

Elizabeth has been recognised a Recommended Lawyer in the Legal 500.

Away from work, Elizabeth loves to travel with her family and enjoys reading and training at karate.


E: elizabeth.wilkinson@bermans.co.uk
T: 0161 383 2134

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Mike Carter

Partner

Mike joined Bermans in 2025 as a Partner in our Litigation team based in Manchester, with over 15 years litigation and dispute resolution experience.

Prior to starting his career in law in 2007, Mike spent 20 years in the shipping and logistics industry – in commercial and operational management roles – experience that has helped form his business orientated approach.

Mike advises owner-managed businesses, small and medium-sized business enterprises, property developers, secured lenders, professional practices and individuals.

His specialist practice areas are contract disputes, professional negligence, acting on behalf of secured lenders, shareholder and partnership disputes, construction disputes, various intellectual property related matters and contested probate.

Outside of work, Mike enjoys exploring the outdoors be it running, hiking or cycling and gardening.

Mike is a recommended lawyer in The Legal 500 directory 2024 and a member of the Professional Negligence Lawyers Association.


E: Mike.carter@bermans.co.uk
T: 0161 388 8563

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Kieran Williams

Solicitor

Kieran is a Solicitor in our Creditor Services and Litigation teams based in Liverpool.

He works on a wide range of commercial litigation matters and works with a variety of companies and business owners.

Kieran studied Law at Liverpool John Moores for both his undergrad degree and his LPC/Masters.

Outside of work, he enjoys playing golf and is a Everton FC fan. He also enjoys watching films and TV series.


E: kieran.williams@bermans.co.uk 

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