The costs and legal aid

Mediation costs may be met one of two ways by private funding or by public funding.

You can find a mediator in your area by searching Find a FMA mediator.

Please note that some mediators do not deal with publicly funded mediation.

Private funding

You will be responsible for your mediation costs. All mediators will be able to give you their rates for mediation. Some charge an hourly rate, others may charge on a sessional or case basis. Prior to the start of the mediation it is important that you attend an assessment meeting. Many mediators make no charge for the first half hour of the assessment meeting, however some do, so it is important to ask about charges prior to the meeting.

Mediation hourly rates are generally much lower than family lawyer hourly rates and therefore you can deal with issues in a more cost effective way.

Publicly Funded Mediations

Dependent on your capital and income, you may be entitled to publicly funded mediation (legal aid). Your mediator will assess this with you.

What does this mean?

  • Your mediation will be completely free of charge.
  • Any monies or property you gain or retain are not subject to the statutory charge, i.e., you do not have to repay your mediation costs at some future date. This may not be the case when dealing with matters through your solicitor.
  • Whilst engaged in mediation you may also be entitled to some assistance from your Solicitor which is also not subject to the statutory charge.
  • The Legal Services Commission will pay your mediator set charges for the work that he/she undertakes on your behalf.

How do I know whether I will be entitled to public funding?

For more information, visit the Legal Services Commission website.

Recent figures show that the average cost of Court proceedings (which may be subject to the statutory charge) is around £5,000.00 - £7,000.00 per person. The average costs of private mediation are around £1,200. Remember if you are publicly funded the mediation is free.