Is mediation less expensive than litigation?

Mediation is significantly cheaper: a 1-day commercial mediation costs £15,000–40,000 total (mediator + legal fees). High Court litigation of the same dispute typically costs £250,000–1,000,000+. Mediation success rates are 70–80% in commercial disputes, often the most cost-effective route.

Can courts compel parties to mediate?

UK courts actively encourage (and since Churchill v Merthyr [2023] CoA can order) parties to attempt ADR, with costs consequences for unreasonable refusal. US courts cannot compel settlement negotiations but routinely require good-faith mediation before trial.

ADR Mediation vs Litigation Cost Comparison Calculator

Compare total dispute resolution cost between mediation (1–2 days, mediator fees £1,500–5,000/day, legal prep), commercial arbitration (ICC/LCIA fees by claim value), and High Court litigation (issue fee, trial costs, counsel fees).

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⚖ For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.

How to Use

Enter the values for the scenario you are assessing. Compare total dispute resolution cost between mediation (1–2 days, mediator fees £1,500–5,000/day, legal prep), commercial arbitration (ICC/LCIA fees by claim value), and High Court litigation (issue fee, trial costs, counsel fees). Use the adr vs litigation cost result to inform your calculation.

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