Mediation costs

What does mediation cost? The mediator does not work for free. A professional mediator will, of course, charge a fee. The cost of mediation depends on: 

• The services provided
• The duration of the mediation process
• The number of parties involved
• The mediator's fees and associated costs

Feel free to ask your mediator for more information in advance. Mediation generally costs less than litigation in court. 

How are the costs of mediation apportioned?

The mediator charges a fee (or honorarium) for their services and invoices the associated costs. The law provides that mediation costs and the mediator's fees are normally shared equally between the parties, although they may agree on a different arrangement. Thus, if the parties are able to bear the costs, they should divide them equally, except where a different agreement has been made through mediation. This information will be included in the mediation protocol. 

Financially accessible mediation

Persons who do not have sufficient income can apply for partial or fully free legal aid also known as ‘pro bono mediation’, if they use a mediator accredited by the FBC. This applies to both the mediation costs and the administrative processing charges. Legal aid covers mediation in both voluntary and court proceedings, as long as it is carried out by an accredited mediator.