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Lawyer Launcher - Behind the Bar
Law school teaches you the law. This podcast teaches you how to succeed inside a law firm.
Lawyer Launcher – Behind the Bar is for law students and newly called lawyers who want to thrive and build confidence when they start practice. Hosted by Susan Van Dyke, a trusted advisor to law firms and a guide for new lawyers navigating their first year, this show offers an insider perspective from the other side of the hiring table.
With over 30 years of experience working with law firms and their leadership teams, Susan knows exactly what firms expect from new hires—and what they rarely explain. This podcast fills that gap, with practical advice, candid conversations, and tools to help you build confidence, credibility, and competence from day one.
New episodes drop every two weeks. Because landing the job is just the beginning.
Lawyer Launcher - Behind the Bar
What every law student should know about mediation
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In this episode of Lawyer Launcher, mediator Mark Tweedy, K.C, discusses the rapid growth of mediation across Canada and the U.S., particularly since 2020, and why it has become central to modern dispute resolution.
He explains that mediation is no longer a last-minute procedural step before trial—it is increasingly a strategic inflection point in litigation. Court backlogs, cost pressures, and client expectations have pushed lawyers to pursue resolution earlier and more deliberately.
Key themes include:
- Mediation as strategy, not compromise. Effective lawyers use mediation to shape risk, manage psychology, and test leverage—not simply “split the difference.”
- The psychology of settlement. Ego, perception of fairness, and emotional drivers often matter more than pure legal strength.
- What makes a strong mediation advocate. Preparation, credible risk analysis, and disciplined communication outperform theatrics.
- Common lawyer mistakes. Overconfidence, positional bargaining, and failing to understand the opposing party’s interests undermine resolution.
- Opportunities for junior lawyers. Observing negotiation dynamics and preparing strong briefs can significantly elevate their value in practice.
The episode ultimately reframes mediation as a core litigation competency and a sophisticated discipline requiring strategic judgment and interpersonal skill.
EPISODE NOTES:
Mark’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-tweedy-kc-9172941/
Mark Tweedy Mediation + Arbitration: https://marktweedy.com/