How Much Does Mediation Cost?~ 2 min read
When considering Mediation as an option for resolving your family law issues, one of the common questions is, “How much will Mediation cost?” The cost of Mediation can vary widely depending on several factors. Here’s what you need to know to get a better idea of what to expect.
4 Factors Affecting the Cost of Mediation
- Number of Meetings: The number of Mediation sessions required plays a significant role in the overall cost. If your case is relatively simple and you are both cooperative and prepared, fewer sessions may be needed, reducing the cost. However, if your case involves more complex issues or there are difficulties in reaching agreements, more sessions may be required, increasing the cost.
- Preparation: Your preparation before each Mediation session can impact the cost. If you come to the meetings with all the necessary documents and information, the mediator can work more efficiently. On the other hand, if you are unprepared, missing important information, or providing it at the last minute, it can lead to wasted time during the session. This not only prolongs the process but also increases the overall cost, as the mediator will need to spend additional time gathering the required information.
- Mediator’s Workload: The work that the mediator needs to do outside of the Mediation sessions can also influence the cost. This includes tasks like reviewing documents, creating spreadsheets, and drafting agreements, including your final settlement documents. If the mediator needs to spend extra time on these tasks due to incomplete or late information, it will likely result in higher costs.
- Hourly Billing: Mediators typically charge by the hour, and you will usually be required to pay a fee deposit upfront. As the mediation progresses, the mediator will bill against this deposit. If the deposit runs out, you will need to replenish it. This can make it difficult to predict the exact cost upfront, but it ensures that you are only paying for the time the mediator actually spends on your case.
To keep your mediation costs as low as possible, the key is preparation. The more organized and prepared you are, the more efficient the Mediation process will be. Make sure you have all necessary documents ready and provide them to the mediator in advance. This allows the mediator to review everything before the session, minimizing wasted time during the meeting. Additionally, being clear and decisive about your goals and your willingness to consider all options can help move the process along more quickly.
Contact Family Ally
At Family Ally, we are committed to helping you navigate the Mediation process smoothly and efficiently. If you’re ready to take control of your future and resolve your issues through Mediation, contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to schedule a consultation.
Family Ally is located at 130 S. Bemiston Ave., Suite 608, St. Louis, MO 63105.
Jennifer R. Piper is a family law attorney, mediator, and parenting coordinator with more than 20 years of experience serving families in the St. Louis area. She is certified as a Guardian ad Litem and frequently appointed by courts to represent children in high-conflict cases. Jennifer is a former Chair of the Family and Juvenile Law Section of the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis and an active leader in local and state bar organizations.
Her professional recognition includes being named to The Best Lawyers in America® (2017–2025), Missouri Super Lawyers (2021–2024), and receiving a Women’s Justice Award from Missouri Lawyers Weekly. Jennifer also holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. She regularly speaks on family law topics and has helped shape family court procedures through her service on multiple committees.
