How Mediator Fees Work
In Israel, mediator fees are typically charged by the hour. Experienced mediators in civil and commercial disputes charge between 600 and 1,500 NIS per hour. Most disputes require between 3 and 8 hours of mediation sessions, though complex cases may require more. Each party usually pays an equal share — the total cost is split.
Preparation and Legal Fees
Attorney fees for preparing for mediation are separate from mediator fees. Many clients attend mediation with their attorney, who helps prepare their position, reviews any proposed agreement, and provides advice during sessions. Attorney fees for mediation preparation are typically significantly lower than litigation costs.
Total Cost Compared to Litigation
A typical civil mediation costing 5,000–15,000 NIS in total per party compares favourably to litigation in Israeli courts, where attorney fees alone can reach 50,000–200,000 NIS per party in a contested civil case — plus court costs, expert witness fees, and years of elapsed time. Even in cases where mediation ultimately fails and the dispute proceeds to court, the mediation process often narrows the issues and reduces total litigation costs.
How much does a mediation session cost in Israel?
The cost of a mediation session in Israel depends on the mediator's seniority and the type of dispute. Most private mediators charge between 600 and 1,500 NIS per hour, split between the parties. A full mediation process for a civil or family dispute typically requires 3–8 sessions and costs each party between 2,000 and 8,000 NIS in mediator fees. Attorney preparation fees are additional but generally much lower than in full litigation.
