Mediation Costs
How Much Does Mediation Cost?
Transparent, published fees for civil and commercial mediation — with a clear explanation of how mediation costs compare to the alternatives.
Mediation Fees
Mediation fees are typically shared equally between participants, although alternative arrangements can be agreed where appropriate.
Fees are generally based on a day rate, with additional time charged where mediation extends beyond the agreed session. The overall cost will depend on the value and complexity of the dispute, the number of participants involved and the preparation required.
What's included in the fee?
- Pre-mediation preparation and review of documents
- Separate pre-mediation discussions with each party
- The mediation session itself (up to one full day)
- Drafting of any heads of terms or agreement
- Follow-up as required
How are fees shared?
Mediation fees are typically shared equally between the parties. This means each party pays half the mediator's fee, which significantly reduces the individual cost compared with instructing separate legal representatives.
The parties may agree a different arrangement if they wish. Payment is required in advance of the mediation session.
Mediation vs litigation: a cost comparison
The cost of commercial litigation in England and Wales varies significantly but can easily reach tens of thousands of pounds in legal fees alone — before any court costs or disbursements. Cases that proceed to trial often take one to three years from issue to judgment.
Mediation, by contrast, can often be arranged and completed within weeks. A mediation session for a dispute valued at £50,000 might cost each party £1,375 — compared with legal costs that could run to £15,000 or more per side for the same matter in litigation.
Even where mediation does not result in full settlement, it often narrows the issues and reduces the cost of any subsequent proceedings.
Discuss Your Dispute
Contact Mediation Chambers for an initial conversation about your dispute and a fee estimate for your specific situation.
Arrange an Initial Consultation