Is mediation voluntary?
General Mediation
Answer
Settlement in mediation is generally voluntary: a party ordinarily cannot be required to accept a particular proposal. Participation, however, is not always voluntary. Courts in many states may refer or order cases to mediation, and contracts can require mediation before litigation or arbitration.
Reviewed by Wayne Lazarus on September 13, 2026.
This information is educational and is not legal advice.
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.