10 Sep Jonathan Cooper Featured In WP Magazine September 2026 Issue
Cooper Mediation Inc. is pleased to share that Jonathan Cooper has been featured in the September 2026 issue of WP Magazine, published by the Ontario Insurance Adjusters Association. His article, “When To Mediate Early? A Practical Guide,” appears alongside insightful contributions by Michael Thompson, Dr. Essam Dabbour, Frano Sain, and George R. Milnes.
In the article, Jon explores what early mediation is, how it differs from traditional mediation, and why parties may benefit from engaging in the process sooner. He discusses potential advantages including:
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- reducing legal and litigation costs;
- achieving greater certainty earlier;
- avoiding the escalation and entrenchment of positions; and
- preserving negotiating capital.
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Jon then examines some of the challenges and resistance that can arise when early mediation is proposed, including concerns that it may be too soon, that suggesting mediation could be perceived as a sign of weakness, or that the parties do not yet have enough information. He offers practical strategies for addressing those concerns and creating a process that allows participants to negotiate meaningfully without requiring every aspect of the case to be fully developed.
Finally, Jon provides a decision framework for assessing whether early mediation is appropriate for a particular file, including consideration of:
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- the complexity of the matter;
- the information required to negotiate responsibly;
- the urgency of resolution; and
- the motivation and flexibility of the participants.
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He also outlines practical next steps for acting on that assessment and designing a mediation process suited to the circumstances of the claim.
As Jon explains, early mediation is not intended to replace traditional mediation or rush parties toward settlement. Rather, it provides another option for resolving appropriate files sooner by right-sizing the mediation process to the needs of the case.
You can read Jon’s full article [PDF] in the September 2026 edition of WP Magazine.
Source
Cooper, Jonathan T. “When To Mediate Early?” WP Magazine, September 2026, pages 11–17. Available at: https://oiaa.com/wp-content/uploads/September-2026-WP-final-1.pdf#page=11
About Jonathan T. Cooper
Jonathan Cooper is a Toronto-based mediator with over a decade of experience, having conducted more than 1,800 civil mediations. Jon devotes 100% of his professional time to mediating primarily, but not exclusively, in the areas of personal injury and insurance.
Jon is recognized for his practical, candid, and experience-driven insights into negotiation dynamics, decision-making barriers, and real-world mediation strategy. Jon is a Distinguished Fellow of the International Academy of Mediators and a member of the Canadian Academy of Distinguished Neutrals (Ontario Chapter), invitation-only organizations reflecting peer-recognized excellence in mediation practice.
Jon can be reached at jon@coopermediation.ca or at (647) 993-2667.
To schedule a mediation with Jon, visit: https://coopermediation.ca/jonathans-online-calendar/.
About Cooper Mediation Inc. (CMI)
CMI is a highly respected and sought-after Toronto-based firm offering mediation and arbitration services to Ontario clients. CMI was founded by Vance Cooper after he transitioned out of his legal practice, which began in 1985, to focus on mediation. Building a strong reputation for his tact and ability to handle complex matters, he became an in-demand mediator.
Serving as a trusted mentor to Jonathan Cooper and Logan Cooper, who joined CMI in 2014 and 2017, respectively, CMI has grown to have a mediator for all types of matters and for every budget. For more information visit: https://coopermediation.ca/.
About WP Magazine
The Without Prejudice Magazine is the Official Journal of the Ontario Insurance Adjusters Association. The OIAA was founded in 1931. Active members include claims managers, supervisors, representatives as well as independent adjusters. The WP is now fully digital, it is ranked as one of the finest insurance adjusters’ journals in North America, and it is available to everyone. The magazine runs from September to June. For more information visit: https://www.oiaa.com/members/wp-magazine/.