Can a party leave mediation before it ends?
General Mediation
Answer
In a voluntary mediation, a party usually can end participation. In court-ordered mediation, leaving without authorization may violate attendance or participation requirements even though the party cannot ordinarily be forced to settle.
Reviewed by Wayne Lazarus on September 14, 2026.
Reviewed by Wayne H. Lazarus, attorney with more than 50 years’ experience, member of the State Bar of Georgia and The Florida Bar, and of Alternative Dispute Resolution sections.
This information is educational and is not legal advice.