Who pays the mediator?
General Mediation
Answer
The parties commonly split the mediator's fee, but they can agree on another allocation. One party may pay all or most of the fee, particularly if a contract or settlement proposal so provides. Payment does not make the mediator the representative of the paying party.
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.