Sandie Graff is certainly not alone in complaining about declining standards of professional courtesy (see [2007] Gazette, 26 July, 16).


In addition to the matters she mentions, I have noticed an increasing tendency among family solicitors (including, sadly, fellow members of Resolution) to jump the gun concerning mediation.



In their initial letter to the other party, they not only suggest that mediation might be suitable (which is perfectly proper), but they also go on to say that, on the assumption that the party will agree, they have already sent instructions to a particular mediator from whom they will hear in due course.



They overlook the fact that not only is mediation itself a voluntary process, but that the choice of mediator is also supposed to be by mutual consent.



John Josephs, Turner Coulston, Raunds, Northants