Setting up 18 studios, Long Eaton, Nottingham

We are looking forward to mediation and an independent view of our case. It will be great to have a discussion, something we have been pushing for a long time. You would think the findings from mediation would be presented at court but these are without prejudice discussions and a way of finding a settlement without the expense of court. It will be good to have the views of a third party. We did a lot of homework before setting up HMS and the we are not unique – therefore issues up for discussion affect many other studios. Despite the case ticking along in the background and the topic of conversation most evenings, I am going through a phase of total absorption in my paintings. Some good days some bad but total involvement with oils.

I am expanding my vocab with words I would rather not know. Calderbank offers for instance. These are offers made by parties to settle a dispute -which a judge will later examine when awarding costs. If a party refuses a Calderbank which proves to be a better deal than what the court decides – then that party risks picking up the tab. It also involves a dose of ‘without prejudice’ – lawyers like to use this term a lot too. It’s useful to know about these offers, especially if you are unrepresented as it can help to put a back-stop on rising costs. For more info.. http://www.propertyweek.com/story.asp?storycode=3008584