Veil Jourde Matinees | Business Mediation, a Tool for Managing Litigation Risk

We were delighted to welcome Denis Musson and Paul Rolland from Equanim International for our Matinale dedicated to Business Mediation.

This was an opportunity for a rich discussion with our partner Maxime de Guillenchmidt, on this tool which has established itself in the legal landscape as an alternative to litigation, given its focus on economic and industrial realism, the preservation of business relationships, and the development of sustainable solutions.

Key points from their discussion:

— The changes introduced by the decree of 18 July 2025 do not amount to a revolution, but mark a significant step forward in strengthening the culture of mediation in France — a welcome development.

— The growth of mediation is shaping a new landscape in which mediation stands as a genuine factor of legal competitiveness. Paris Place de Droit has a real role to play in this momentum.

— Mediation is a particularly effective response to conflict in business life, the cost of which is estimated at €30 billion, notably in the areas of #M&A litigation, governance disputes, and intellectual property; it allows for business-oriented solutions, in contrast to court decisions.

— Even when it does not succeed, mediation can trigger a constructive dynamic, helping parties better understand the root of their dispute and paving the way for subsequent negotiated solutions.

— The mediator’s profile is of course a key factor, but the #lawyer is also a critical player in the success of mediation: closely involved in the case and familiar with their client’s sensitivities, the lawyer can help bring about a balanced solution for all parties.

Many thanks to Denis Musson and Paul Rolland for their participation, as well as to all attendees for their valuable insights and experience!