Efficiency • Confidentiality • Resolution

Commercial Mediation & Arbitration in Johannesburg

In business, disputes can quickly disrupt operations, damage relationships, and cost time and money. Through commercial mediation and arbitration, our accredited mediators and arbitrators help companies resolve disputes efficiently and privately – without the expense and publicity of litigation.

Book a Commercial Mediation Consultation

Protecting Relationships • Preserving Value

Why Mediation and Arbitration Are Smart Business

Commercial disputes are inevitable — but expensive litigation isn’t. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) allows businesses to maintain continuity, protect reputations, and find fast, commercially sound solutions.

Under the Gauteng High Court’s mandatory mediation directive, courts now require mediation before litigation for many disputes, including commercial matters. This shift means ADR is no longer just an option — it’s an essential part of responsible business practice.

Advantages Over Traditional Litigation

You Keep Control – The parties decide the outcome, not a judge.
Private & Confidential – Protects corporate reputation and sensitive information.
Enforceable Outcomes – Agreements and arbitration awards can be legally binding.
Flexible Process – Tailored timelines and procedures suit your business needs.
Mandatory Mediation Ready – Fully compliant with the Gauteng High Court directive.
Broad Experience • Tailored Solutions

What Types of Commercial Disputes Can Be Mediated or Arbitrated?

Contractual Disputes – Misinterpretation, non-performance, or breach of agreements.
Shareholder & Partnership Conflicts – Aligning objectives and restoring trust among stakeholders.
Supply Chain & Service Conflicts – Addressing non-delivery, quality disputes, or late performance issues.
Franchise & Licensing Disputes – Negotiating commercial rights and obligations fairly.
Employment & Executive Conflicts – Handling internal disputes without escalating to litigation.
Insurance & Indemnity Claims – Settling disputes over coverage or liability through private arbitration.
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Attorneys with specialist expertise

Our team brings accredited skills across property, family, commercial, labour, and mediation law.

Over 30 Years Of Experience​

Trusted by generations of clients since 1993.

500+ Family & Divorce Cases Resolved

Guiding families through sensitive matters with compassion and clarity.

Reported High Court & Supreme Court of Appeal Judgments

Our cases have shaped South African common law and set lasting precedents.

Structured. Strategic. Confidential.

How We Resolve Commercial Disputes

  1. Initial Consultation – We assess the dispute and determine whether mediation or arbitration is appropriate.
  2. Agreement to Mediate/Arbitrate – Parties formally agree to ADR, ensuring confidentiality and enforceability.
  3. Mediation/Arbitration Session(s) – Discussions or hearings facilitated by an accredited neutral (mediator or arbitrator).
  4. Settlement or Award – The result is a binding settlement or arbitration award that can be enforced in court.
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Avoid Costly Mistakes

Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Commercial ADR

  1. Failing to Include ADR Clauses in Contracts – Every agreement should include a mediation or arbitration clause to avoid future uncertainty.
    Read our article: Why Your Business Contracts Need ADR Clauses →
  2. Choosing the Wrong Neutral – Always select an accredited mediator or arbitrator with industry-specific experience.
    Meet our Accredited Mediators →
  3. Ignoring the High Court Directive – The Gauteng High Court’s mandatory mediation directive applies to many commercial disputes. Non-compliance can delay proceedings and increase costs.
    Learn More →
  4. Relying on Litigation Tactics – ADR requires collaboration, not confrontation. Prepare with negotiation, not aggression.
    Preparing for Mediation →
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30+ Years • Accredited Expertise • Proven Results

Expertise You Can Trust in Commercial Disputes

Led by Hugh Raichlin, accredited mediator (London School of Mediation) and Associate Member of the Association of Arbitrators (Southern Africa), our firm offers a unique blend of commercial law insight and mediation skill. We understand the financial, operational, and relational dimensions of business disputes, ensuring solutions that make both legal and commercial sense.

  • Accredited Mediator (London School of Mediation).
  • Associate Member of the Association of Arbitrators SA.
  • Over 30 years’ litigation and dispute resolution experience.
  • Unique ability to bridge legal rigour with constructive dialogue.
  • Trusted to implement the High Court’s mandatory mediation directive.

Common Questions Answered

Commercial Mediation & Arbitration FAQs

Faster. Smarter. Compliant.

Resolve Your Commercial Dispute Efficiently

Don’t let disputes derail your business. Through mediation and arbitration, we help companies preserve relationships, protect reputations, and stay compliant with the Gauteng High Court’s mandatory mediation directive.

Schedule a Consultation
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Contact Us

Here\’s how you can contact us for any questions or concerns.

1 The Avenue, Norwood, Johannesburg 2192

011 483 1527

reception@Raichlin.co.za

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