Magic circle firm Linklaters was among the winners of the biannual CEDR (Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution) awards presented last night in London. It won the award for alternative dispute resolution and civil justice innovation for setting up the Commercial Mediation Group in January this year.

The group is an affiliation of solicitors in private practice and in-house counsel, who act as advisers in relation to the resolution of commercial disputes through mediation. It has grown to over 60 member firms.

Linklaters shared the award with judge Srđan Šimac, who was recognised for his work in bringing and popularising mediation in Croatia. He founded the Croatian Mediation Association and has become its first president.

Other winners included Geoff Lloyd, executive director for tax policy at Ernst & Young, recognised for his work on an HM Revenue & Customs initiative which uses mediation to resolve tax disputes; and Mydeposits, a government-authorised tenancy deposit protection scheme, which uses an ADR process designed by the company.

CEDR chief executive Karl Mackie said: ‘We are delighted by the innovative work that is being celebrated this evening, and the dedication shown by all of the winners and finalists to furthering the cause of alternative dispute resolution.

‘The record number of finalists for this year’s awards shows clearly how these practices are entering the mainstream, and their potential for transforming the way we approach conflict. As the diverse entrants show, the field of dispute resolution is changing to reflect the diverse needs of modern society.’