“And now for something completely different.” No, this isn’t a Monty Python sketch; it’s the moment when participants who are engaged in our adversarial legal system attempt to co-operate and work together. When you say it like that, it sounds almost absurd as one of...
Ask and ye shall find. Is asking the best way to change a mind? A clear and focused statement can sometimes better focus thoughts and persuade us. In this second part of our blog series on applying empirical principles of persuasion to mediation, I explore what...
Psychologists have conducted numerous studies to understand and explain why we are influenced by certain triggers. One of the top names in the field, Robert Cialdini, has distilled this work into six easy-to-understand principles of influence: liking; authority; social proof; reciprocity; consistency; and, scarcity. In this...
Cooper Mediation Inc. is pleased to announce that Toronto mediator Jonathan T. Cooper has been inducted as a Fellow into the International Academy of Mediators (IAM). The IAM is an organization consisting of the most successful commercial mediators in the world. Membership is by invitation...
In horse racing, there is a popular expression, “different horses for different courses.” Some horses run well in mud; others on turf; some don’t run well anywhere and find themselves facing their mortality sooner than they might expect. This concept applies equally to mediation. There are many ways mediators and...
Another summer has come and gone. As we head into the fourth quarter of 2019 - the home stretch - we'd like to offer five tips for surviving another busy season. Keep Your Eye On The Prize.Remember that at the end of the road, there...
If you’re involved in a legal action, you probably consider at least one of the other parties to be an opponent. As you and your client prepare your case, you will likely be hoping that if it is ever heard by a judge or jury...
There are few people more pressed for time than young lawyers. Building a practice and reputation is exceptionally difficult work. Relatively new entrants into the legal field can usually be found juggling many cases and burning their candles at both ends. In fact, if you are...
When I meet with people who are frequently involved in mediations in a variety of roles, we often talk shop and discuss trends in the profession. After conferring with my colleagues, both at Cooper Mediation and generally in the personal injury and insurance practice areas,...
Our story begins with Vance Cooper transitioning out of his legal practice to focus on mediation. Building a strong reputation for his tact and ability to handle complex matters, he became a much sought-after mediator. Serving as a trusted mentor to Jon Cooper and Logan Cooper, who...
