How long does mediation take?
General Mediation
Answer
There is no standard duration. A simple dispute may resolve in a few hours. Complex commercial, construction, medical-malpractice, employment, or multiparty cases may require a full day or several sessions. The number of parties, complexity, emotional intensity, information available, and distance between positions all affect duration.
Reviewed by Wayne Lazarus on September 17, 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.