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10.12.2025 17:34

A settlement can be reached without going to court – what is court mediation?

More disputes covered by PAM’s legal aid are now resolved through court mediation.

PAMin juristi Ronja Marjander

Resolving an employment-related dispute can be a long and difficult process for a worker. But not all disputes lead to years of court proceedings. More disputes for which PAM provides legal aid are now settled through court mediation.

PAM lawyer Ronja Marjander explains what court mediation means – and why it can be a good option for workers.

What is court mediation?

– Court mediation is an alternative dispute resolution process where the parties meet to look for a solution. In employment-related cases, this typically means the employee and a representative of the employer – such as a supervisor or sometimes someone from company management. The session is led by a judge trained in mediation, but the judge does not give a judgement. Their role is to support the parties in finding a solution themselves, Marjander explains.

So, it is not a court trial – the focus is on dialogue and reaching a solution, not deciding who is right.

Why is mediation suitable for employment disputes?

Mediation is often used when the dispute has already gone on for a long time. In cases where PAM has granted legal aid, mediation often becomes part of the process. Common employment-related disputes involve disagreements about dismissal, unpaid wages or working conditions.

– Employment disputes are often personal and emotional. Court mediation gives the worker a chance to be truly heard. It can be important that the employer understands how the situation has affected the worker, says Marjander.

A settlement reached through mediation can also include elements that a court would not be able to order – for example, a good reference or an apology.

Why might mediation be a good option for a worker?

– Mediation is usually much faster than a court process, which can take several years. The mediation session is usually arranged quickly, and it can save both time and stress, Marjander explains.

The worker also retains the right to continue the legal process if no agreement is reached.

– Mediation does not end the court case – it only pauses it. If no settlement is reached, the case continues in court as usual.

What if someone doesn’t want to take part in mediation?

Both parties must agree for mediation to take place. There are also situations where mediation is not appropriate – for example, in serious cases of abuse.

Marjander reminds us that PAM’s legal aid also covers participation in court mediation. A union-appointed lawyer is always there to support the member.

– It’s important that the worker is not left alone. In mediation, PAM’s lawyer is there to support the member and make sure their rights are protected.

What does court mediation mean?

  • The goal is to find a solution that satisfies both parties – not to decide who is right.
  • The process is faster and lighter than a court case.
  • The agreement may include unusual elements, such as a reference or an apology.
  • Mediation requires the consent of both parties.
  • If no agreement is reached, the court process continues as normal.
  • PAM’s legal aid also covers court mediation.

Text: Minttu Sallinen
Photo: Eeva Anundi

Keywords:

employment relationship membership

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