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From trial to table: Mediation becomes front and centre in Gauteng's civil court system

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From trial to table: Mediation becomes front and centre in Gauteng's civil court system

Burton Meyer, Director in the Dispute Resolution practice was recently featured on SABC News with Liezle Wilson where he discussed 'From trial to table: Mediation becomes front and centre in Gauteng's civil court system.'

10 Jun 2025 08:19 Minutes TV interview

Burton explained that, in response to an overwhelming national caseload, with some trial dates now being scheduled as far ahead as 2031, the Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court has introduced mandatory mediation for all civil matters. This directive aims to alleviate the severe backlog and reduce delays in the administration of justice.

Burton noted that as a direct result of the directive, all trial dates scheduled from 1 January 2027 onwards have been removed. Parties with affected cases must now appoint a mediator, go through a structured mediation process, and attempt to reach a settlement. Only if the mediation is unsuccessful can they reapply for a trial date.

Burton said a clear protocol has been issued to guide this process which is expected to run for approximately 50 days from initiation to conclusion. If mediation fails, litigants may return to court and apply for a new trial date, with the court committing to allocate new dates within 18 months of reapplication.

Watch the interview below.

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