Question 1

What exactly is Neutral Conflict Resolution?

Accepted Answer

It is a professional way of addressing a dispute through an independent, neutral third party who helps order the situation, clarify positions and explore workable solutions. It takes in different tools such as conciliation (conciliación), assisted negotiation (negociación asistida), an independent opinion or, where appropriate, mediation (mediación).

Question 2

Is it the same as mediation?

Accepted Answer

Not quite. Mediation is one of the possible tools, but Neutral Conflict Resolution is a wider and more flexible approach, one that adapts the intervention to each case. In some disputes mediation is the right fit; in others, another kind of neutral intervention is more useful.

Question 3

What is the difference between mediation and conciliation?

Accepted Answer

The information session explains which form may fit each case better. Put simply: Mediation: the neutral professional eases the communication so that the parties reach an agreement themselves. Conciliation: the professional may put forward proposals for a solution, without imposing them.

Question 4

What kind of disputes can be taken on?

Accepted Answer

Each case is assessed on its own. Especially suited to disputes: civil and commercial about estates and companies family, with a financial component between partners or heirs business or professional

Question 5

Does the Sesión Informativa MASC (MASC information session) oblige me to anything?

Accepted Answer

No. After the session, the decision is entirely yours. The MASC information session is informative and nothing more. It serves to: learn what options exist weigh whether this approach fits the case identify the MASC route that, where applicable, can document the prior attempt to negotiate

Question 6

What if one party does not want to take part?

Accepted Answer

Taking part is voluntary. If one party does not agree to start the process, or decides to leave it, the MASC attempt counts as made where the law requires one.

Question 7

Is reaching an agreement compulsory?

Accepted Answer

No. Neither party is obliged to reach an agreement or to continue the process if it does not consider that advisable. The aim is to help you decide with more clarity, not to force solutions.

Question 8

Is it confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The whole process runs under strict confidentiality: the negotiation and the documents used in it are confidential, with the exceptions the law provides for.

Question 9

How long does the process take?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the case. Some processes are settled in one or two sessions; others need more time. The length depends on: the complexity of the dispute the availability of the parties the pace the parties themselves agree on

Question 10

How does the process start?

Accepted Answer

The first step is to request a MASC information session. In that session I weigh: whether the process is suitable the right format the possible next steps

Question 11

Where do the sessions take place?

Accepted Answer

Both options keep confidentiality and effectiveness. In person, in Marbella Online, by secure video call

Question 12

Can I come with my lawyer or adviser?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Neutral Conflict Resolution does not replace your lawyer or your tax adviser. The neutral intervention is complementary. The parties can: come accompanied consult their own professionals at any point keep their legal strategy untouched

Question 13

Does the neutral professional give legal or tax advice?

Accepted Answer

No. The professional acts from a neutral position and neither advises nor represents any party. The intervention can bring technical analysis, financial assessment and possible scenarios, but not representation or advice for one side.

Question 14

What if the dispute is already before the courts?

Accepted Answer

That is no obstacle. Neutral Conflict Resolution sits alongside court proceedings that are under way and, in many cases, it helps unblock situations that have stalled.

Question 15

What does it cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost depends on the kind of intervention and on the number of sessions needed. The financial terms are explained before the process begins, with full transparency, and nothing starts automatically.

Question 16

Is it cheaper than court proceedings?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. Not only for the direct cost, but also for: the shorter timescale the lower emotional toll the reduction in risk and uncertainty

Question 17

What happens if no agreement is reached?

Accepted Answer

Nothing is lost; usually perspective is gained. Even without an agreement, the process tends to bring: more clarity a better grasp of the positions a firmer basis on which to negotiate or go to court

Frequently asked questions

About the approach

About MASC (Medios Adecuados de Solución de Controversias)

About the process

About lawyers and court proceedings

About cost and effectiveness

Are you unsure whether this approach fits your situation?