1.Make a thorough conflict analysis and conflict diagnosis.
To do this, use the 7i model, for example. In this way you will learn to understand the situation and choose the solution mechanism that best fits the situation.
2. Look for common interests of the parties involved as much as possible.
And wherever their interests are conflicting, start from reasonable standards as much as possible, independent of the will of the parties involved. This will give a better negotiation result.
3. Practice conflict resolution mechanisms regularly.
Negotiation, mediation, communication, conflict analysis and conflict diagnosis are all skills requiring deeper understanding and maintenance so that you can use them when the situation calls for it.
4. Have a broad action repertoire to contain and resolve conflict
By having a broad acting repertoire to resolve conflicts, such as dispute committees, grievance committees, mediation, binding advice and arbitration. A broad view of conflict resolution helps resolve problems outside the courtroom already.
5. Consider not only the legal dimensions of conflicts, but also the emotional, moral, psychological and social dimensions
Citizens not only have material motives, such as money or the exercise of their rights, but also often desire recognition, prevention and apologies.
Bonus tip: attend the Effective Conflict Management, Negotiation and Mediation for Legal Professionals course starting May 14, 2024 (please note: this course is in Dutch).
This course covers all of the aforementioned themes and topics, focusing on the daily practice of legal professionals. You will learn how to choose and apply effective conflict resolution mechanisms, from a broad view of preventing, containing and resolving conflicts, so that you can serve your clientele the best possible way.
Participants on this course:
"The subject matter is very hands-on.You can immediately start working on your own."
"A very complete course with a pleasant atmosphere, in which you get tools for dealing with conflicts."
"This is what negotiating is all about. The same goes for conflict mediation. The course captures the essence of both disciplines, which are a very essential part of practice. Moreover, it inspires me to dig deeper into the mediation component."
Go to the webpage of the Leergang Effectieve conflicthantering, onderhandelen en mediation (page and course are in Dutch).
Five tips for handling conflicts as a lawyer
16 February 2024
Legal professionals are increasingly expected to play a role as proactive problem solvers, requiring not only legal knowledge but also other competencies and creativity. Mr. Dick Allewijn, Emeritus Professor of Mediation at the VU Amsterdam, offers five tips on how to deal with conflicts as a legal professional.