Mediation Costs: A Complete Guide for 2026
One of the primary reasons people choose mediation over the traditional court route is the significant cost saving. While a contested court battle can easily exceed £20,000 in legal fees, mediation is a fraction of the cost.
However, understanding exactly what you will pay depends on your financial circumstances
and the nature of your dispute.
We help with:
Family • Workplace • Commercial • Probate • Property • Community
1. Family Mediation CostsFamily mediation is charged "per person, per session." This allows you to pay as you go rather than facing a massive upfront bill. |
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Stage of Process |
Typical Cost from (Per Person) |
Details |
|
The MIAM |
£120 |
Initial assessment meeting. |
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Joint Session |
£180 |
Usually 90 minutes per session. |
|
Document Drafting |
£180 |
For the Parenting Plan or MOU. |
How to Get Free or Discounted Family Mediation
Before paying for meetings, check if you qualify for these government-funded schemes:
- Legal Aid (Free): If you are on a low income or receive benefits, you may be entitled to have all costs covered. Check your Legal Aid Eligibility
- Family Mediation Voucher (£500): A non-means-tested voucher for disputes involving children. Learn about the £500 Voucher Scheme
2. Civil & Commercial Mediation CostsCivil mediation (debts, contracts, property) is often charged as a fixed hourly or day rate, rather than per session. If you have already submitted a claim to the Small Claims Court, your case may qualify for an automatic referral to mediation which includes a 1-hour telephone appointment provided by HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS). If not wishing to enter the court process, do not wish to explore a resolution pre-court, or your claim exceeds £10,000, civil mediation is often successful and considerably cheaper. |
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Stage of Process |
Typical Cost from (Per Person) |
Details |
|
Consultation: |
Free |
30 minute chat with a CMC Accredited Civil Mediator |
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Individual conflict support: |
£125 per hour |
For those not yet ready for mediation |
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Joint Meetings |
£200 - £1,500 |
Based on 1 hour or 8 hours, additional hours can be decided upon |
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Fees vary depending on complexity. All costs are confirmed before you proceed. Payment plans are also available. |
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3. Workplace Mediation Costs
In the vast majority of workplace cases, the employer covers 100% of the cost.
- Daily Rate: Typically ranges from £800 to £1,500 depending on the complexity and the number of employees involved.
- Benefit: This is significantly cheaper for a company than facing an Employment Tribunal, which can cost upwards of £8,500 in legal fees alone.
2-minute free assessment. No obligation
Cost Comparison: Mediation vs. Court CostsThe table below shows the average financial costs for a typical contested case. |
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|
Expense |
Mediation |
Court Proceedings |
|
Solicitor Fees |
Minimal (Advice only) |
£250 - £400 per hour |
|
Court Fees |
N/A |
£232 - £593+ |
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Barrister Fees |
N/A |
£1,500 - £5,000+ per day |
|
Total Average Cost |
£500 - £1,500 |
£10,000 - £30,000+ |
Frequently Asked Questions about Mediation Costs
Who pays for the mediator?
In family and civil cases, costs are usually split 50/50. However, in family cases, if one party has Legal Aid and the other does not, the Legal Aid Agency will often pay for the first joint session for both people. In workplace mediation, the employer usually pays all fees relating to mediation.
Are there any hidden fees for mediating?
No. Costs, if applicable, are confirmed at the point of booking. The only extra costs are usually for drafting the final documents (the Memorandum of Understanding or a Settlement Agreement).
What if I can't afford to pay for mediation?
If you don't qualify for Legal Aid or the Government Mediation Voucher, we offer payment plans via Klarna to help spread the cost. Ask about this during your initial call.
Ready to Get Started?
Get clear advice, funding guidance and the right mediator without delays.