Music industry mediation
Music disputes - resolved by someone who knows the business.
Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process where a neutral mediator helps the parties talk through a dispute and reach their own resolution, without handing the decision to a judge or arbitrator.
Music disputes are rarely just about money. They involve long relationships, shared catalogs and technical details about rights and royalties. As a mediator who has run both label and publisher operations, I can follow the numbers and the industry context, so less time goes to explaining how the business works and more goes to solving the problem.
How I approach mediation
- Neutral. I don't represent or advise either side. My role is to help everyone be heard and find workable options.
- Confidential. What's discussed in mediation stays in mediation, as set out in a written mediation agreement.
- Practical. I help the parties reality-test the numbers and the deal terms so agreements hold up in practice.
- Relationship-aware. Artists, writers and companies often keep working together. The process is designed to preserve that where possible.
Disputes I commonly see
How the process works
- 01
Initial consultation
A free 15-minute call to talk through the situation and whether mediation is a good fit.
- 02
Intake & conflict check
A short questionnaire so I can confirm I have no conflicts with any party and prepare.
- 03
Mediation agreement
All parties sign an agreement covering confidentiality, scheduling and fees, and may share brief written summaries.
- 04
Mediation session
Held by video or in person, with joint and private conversations as needed. Many matters resolve in a single session.
- 05
Resolution
If the parties reach agreement, the terms are put in writing. Nothing is binding unless everyone signs.
Common questions
Is mediation binding?
Only if the parties choose to sign a settlement agreement. If there's no agreement, everyone keeps all of their other options.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not necessarily, but parties are welcome to bring counsel, and it's often helpful. As mediator I stay neutral and don't give legal advice to any party.
What if the other side hasn't agreed to mediate yet?
That's common. We can talk through how to propose mediation in the initial consultation.
Can mediation happen remotely?
Yes. Sessions can be held by video, which makes it easy to bring together parties in different cities or countries.