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Melanie Becktel, principal lawyer at Becktel & Associates

Most disputes are resolved by agreement, not by judgment.

A Sydney dispute resolution practice working in civil matters across State and Federal jurisdictions. There are two ways to engage us.

Are we for you, or between you?

It is the first thing to settle. A visitor mid-dispute needs to know immediately whether we act on their side, or as the neutral between both sides.

Representation

We act for you.

You have been served, you are owed money, or you are weighing up whether to bring a claim.

  • Advice on the strength of your position
  • Negotiating directly with the other side
  • Appearances in Court and Tribunal
  • Flexible fee arrangements, including contingency options

Mediation

We remain neutral.

Both parties want the matter resolved without the cost and delay of running it to hearing.

  • Full-day mediations, Sydney or online
  • Reality-testing both positions against likely outcomes
  • Settlement agreement drafted on the day
  • Trauma-informed, with adjustments made

Our method is facilitative rather than combative: testing each position against what a court would realistically do, so both parties can see the cost of holding out.

  • Member of The Law Society of New South Wales
  • Resolution Institute, Professional member
  • Legal Aid NSW panel lawyer

Admitted to the Supreme Court of New South Wales and the High Court of Australia. AMDRAS accredited mediator.

Start with a conversation

A short questionnaire, free and without obligation. Its only purpose is working out which of the two paths fits your situation.

Prefer not to call? Text or email and we will come back to you within one business day.

Office
13/111 Elizabeth Street Sydney NSW 2000
Hours
Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 5.30pm
Remote
Mediations hosted online for interstate and overseas parties