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Introduction
Duncan is an accredited mediator (Australian Disputes Centre; Mediator Standards Board 101-8695) committed to fair, equitable outcomes without the cost of litigation. He specialises in a blended process of mediation, conciliation, advisory and evaluative techniques, with expertise in family disputes and a wide range of commercial matters — including property, wills, estates and succession planning between family members or business partners.
Our Approach
Every conflict is unique and needs a tailored path to resolution. Duncan draws on deep market understanding and a global perspective to guide parties toward fair, sustainable agreements — whether navigating complex family disputes over wills, estates and succession, or facilitating commercial negotiations. The first step is always a confidential conversation about your situation.
Disputes I mediate
Wills, estates and succession — disagreements between beneficiaries, executors and family members, resolved before they consume the estate. Property — co-ownership, family property transfers, and disputes intersecting with a sale. Commercial — partnership and business disputes where the relationship, or at least the exit, still matters. Family arrangements — the difficult conversations best had with a neutral professional in the room.
Mediation or court? The honest comparison
Litigation over an estate or property routinely consumes months to years and tens of thousands of dollars per party — often paid out of the very asset being fought over — and ends with a decision imposed on everyone. Mediation typically resolves in days, costs a fraction, stays confidential, and produces an agreement the parties actually shaped. Courts themselves increasingly expect parties to attempt mediation first. It isn't right for every dispute — and Duncan will tell you honestly if yours is one where it isn't.
What to expect
1. A confidential intake conversation with each party — separately — to understand the dispute and confirm mediation suits it.
2. The mediation: a structured day (sometimes two) combining joint sessions and private discussions, at a neutral venue or online.
3. Agreement: when parties reach terms, they're documented on the day — most disputes that reach the table settle.