Facing housing possession proceedings can be one of the most stressful experiences a tenant or homeowner will ever go through. The threat of losing your home is deeply unsettling, and the court process can feel overwhelming. However, not every possession dispute needs to end up before a judge. Round table meetings (RTMs) offer a powerful alternative — a structured, without-prejudice negotiation between parties that can resolve disputes faster, cheaper, and with better outcomes for everyone involved.
In this article, we explain what round table meetings are, why they matter in housing possession cases, and how they could help protect your home.
What Is a Round Table Meeting?
A round table meeting is a face-to-face (or virtual) meeting between the parties involved in a dispute — typically the tenant or homeowner, the landlord or mortgage lender, and their respective solicitors. The meeting takes place on a without-prejudice basis, meaning that anything discussed cannot be used against either party in court if negotiations break down.
The goal is simple: to reach a settlement or agreement that avoids the need for a full court hearing.
Why Are Round Table Meetings Important in Possession Cases?
1. They Can Save Your Home
The most obvious benefit is that a successful RTM can result in an agreement that allows you to remain in your property. This might involve a revised payment plan, a suspended possession order by consent, or other arrangements that address the landlord’s or lender’s concerns while preserving your tenancy or ownership.
2. Courts Actively Encourage Settlement
Under the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) and the Pre-Action Protocol for Possession Claims, courts expect parties to have made genuine attempts to resolve matters before issuing proceedings. Judges look unfavourably on parties who refuse reasonable offers to negotiate. Attending a round table meeting demonstrates a willingness to engage and can strengthen your position if the matter does proceed to court.
3. They Reduce Legal Costs
Contested possession hearings involve court fees, barrister fees, and preparation costs that add up quickly — for both sides. A round table meeting is significantly cheaper. Even if you are legally aided, avoiding unnecessary hearings preserves resources and reduces stress.
4. Faster Resolution
Court listings can take weeks or months. A round table meeting can be arranged within days. For someone facing the imminent loss of their home, speed matters enormously.
5. More Flexible Outcomes
A court can only make orders within its powers — typically outright possession, suspended possession, or dismissal. A round table meeting allows parties to agree on creative solutions that a court might not order: phased repayments, property repairs, temporary rent reductions, referrals to support services, or even agreed timelines for a planned move.
6. Less Adversarial, More Human
Court proceedings are inherently adversarial. A round table meeting shifts the dynamic to a problem-solving conversation. This is particularly important in cases involving vulnerable tenants, families with children, or people with health conditions, where the human impact of possession is most acute.
When Should You Request a Round Table Meeting?
A round table meeting can be useful at various stages:
- Before proceedings are issued — to prevent the claim from being filed at all
- After proceedings but before the hearing — to negotiate a consent order
- After a possession order has been made — to agree terms for a stay or suspension
The earlier you engage, the better your chances of a favourable outcome.
What Happens at a Round Table Meeting?
Typically, both parties and their legal representatives attend. The meeting follows a structured format:
- Each side sets out their position — what they want and why
- Open discussion — exploring common ground and potential solutions
- Negotiation — working towards terms both parties can accept
- Agreement — if reached, this is recorded in writing and can be made into a court order by consent
If no agreement is reached, the matter proceeds to court — but the without-prejudice nature of the meeting means nothing discussed can be held against you.
How Adel Jibs Solicitors Can Help
At Adel Jibs Solicitors, our housing law team has extensive experience representing tenants and homeowners in possession proceedings. We understand the pressure you are under, and we know that early, strategic negotiation can make all the difference.
We can:
- Advise you on the strength of your case before any meeting
- Arrange and attend round table meetings on your behalf
- Negotiate effectively with landlords, councils, and mortgage lenders
- Draft consent orders that protect your interests
- Represent you in court if a negotiated solution is not possible
If you are facing possession proceedings — or have received a notice seeking possession — do not wait. Contact us today for expert legal advice.
📞 Call us or 📧 email us to book a consultation.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice tailored to your situation, please contact Adel Jibs Solicitors directly.