Mediation for complex, high-stakes and sensitive civil disputes across Canada.
Resolution begins with understanding what matters.
Behind complex claims are questions of risk, credibility, reputation and relationships, with consequences that extend well beyond the resolution of the dispute.
Founded by Cliff Hendler, one of Canada’s most experienced commercial mediators, HMI is retained by leading counsel, insurers and institutions when the stakes are high and the path to resolution is not obvious.
OUR MEDIATORS AND ARBITRATORS
Experience. Judgment. Perspective.
FOUNDER, MEDIATOR, AND ARBITRATORCliff Hendler
One of Canada's most experienced commercial mediators, Cliff has conducted thousands of mediations over more than 36 years, including complex commercial disputes, class actions, professional negligence and aviation.
PRINCIPAL, MEDIATOR AND ARBITRATORSusannah Margison
A former trial lawyer, Susannah mediates complex civil disputes with particular depth in medical malpractice, professional negligence and healthcare-related matters.
Why Counsel Choose Hendler Mediation
Focused on Resolution.
We help parties assess risk, consider their alternatives and make informed decisions that move difficult disputes toward resolution. Our approach is practical, candid and attentive to the consequences of continued litigation.
Negotiation Informed by Experience.
Our experience in litigation informs how we mediate. We understand the pressures facing counsel, clients and insurers, and the strategic considerations that shape difficult decisions.
Persistent by Design.
For counsel, mediation is a strategic conversation about risk. For clients, it is often deeply personal. We give both their due and bring the patience and resolve to keep negotiations moving.
Mediation as a Process, Not an Event.
Resolution does not always happen in a single day. When a matter remains unresolved, we continue working with counsel to identify opportunities for progress. Where a productive path remains, we stay engaged.
EXPERTISE
Our Practice Areas
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Multi-party and representative proceedings that call for careful process design, from settlement structure to court approval.
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Claims involving physicians, hospitals, nursing and long-term care, where clinical complexity meets profound personal consequences.
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Claims against lawyers, accountants, engineers and other professionals, where a finding of fault carries consequences well beyond the damages.
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Aviation loss and accident claims involving carriers, manufacturers, insurers and families, often across jurisdictions.
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Claims involving life-altering injury or loss of life, where future care, family circumstances and dignity weigh as heavily as the numbers.
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Claims against public, religious, educational and healthcare institutions, including historical abuse, where the process must respect both the people harmed and the institution’s obligations.
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Claims arising from defective products and devices, frequently involving multiple defendants, insurers and expert evidence.
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Contract, shareholder, partnership and coverage disputes in which commercial relationships and significant sums are at stake.
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Disputes over what was said or published, where a negotiated outcome can protect reputations that a trial might further damage.
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Disputes among directors, executives and governing bodies, where confidentiality and continuing working relationships matter.
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Sensitive disputes within families and family-owned enterprises, where business decisions and personal history are intertwined.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
Advisory and Education
Conflict Advisory & Leadership
Independent, confidential perspective for leaders and professionals facing a consequential conflict.
Training & Speaking
Negotiation and conflict education for legal, insurance and healthcare audiences.
Considering a Mediation?
Contact us confidentially with a brief description of the matter, your preferred mediator and any proposed dates.