What Does Mediation Cost in New York and Are There Free Options?
Direct Answer
Private mediation in New York can be costly, especially in New York City, but free and reduced-fee mediation is available through community dispute resolution centers, housing court programs, and legal aid organizations.
Private mediator fees in New York City and the surrounding metro area are among the highest in the country, reflecting the cost of legal services generally. Experienced commercial mediators at JAMS or AAA typically charge $400 to $800 per hour, with minimum session fees of $3,000 to $6,000 per party. Family and divorce mediators in private practice typically charge $250 to $500 per hour. However, free and low-cost options are widely available. The 62 Community Dispute Resolution Centers (CDRCs) statewide provide free mediation for community, family, and minor civil disputes — funded by a $2 surcharge on civil court filings under Judiciary Law §849-b. The New York City Housing Court's mediation programs are free to parties. The DHR's mediation program for human rights complaints is free. Legal aid organizations such as the Legal Aid Society and Mobilization for Justice provide free mediation-related services to qualifying low-income individuals. For commercial disputes, the CPR Institute offers a reduced-fee early neutral evaluation program. Parties in the Commercial Division who cannot afford private mediation may request that the court appoint a mediator from the court's roster at a reduced rate.