Agreement to Mediate (Family)

An agreement to mediate for family mediation in Ireland sets out the ground rules before mediation begins. Before family mediation begins, both parties normally sign an agreement to mediate. In this service, a solicitor would draft the agreement covering the appointment of the mediator, confidentiality and without-prejudice status, disclosure, how costs are shared and how the process ends, consistent with the Mediation Act 2017. Having the ground rules agreed in writing helps both parties approach mediation with confidence.

What’s included

• A professionally drafted agreement to mediate for family mediation
• Covering appointment of the mediator, confidentiality and without-prejudice status, disclosure, sharing of costs and how the process ends
• Consistent with the Mediation Act 2017
• Self-complete template with guidance notes — you fill it in yourself
• Documents tailored to Irish law and your circumstances, delivered by email
• A written summary of the key points and anything you need to do afterwards

Who this is for

• Separating couples who have agreed to try mediation
• Parents mediating arrangements for their children
• Family members mediating a dispute about property or care
• Mediators or parties who want a clear written agreement before starting

How it works

1. Find a solicitor through the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory and send them the basic details and any existing documents or correspondence.
2. Complete a short questionnaire about your circumstances.
3. A solicitor would then draft the agreement to mediate for your family mediation.
4. The completed work is delivered to you by email, with plain-English notes on what to do next.

Frequently asked questions

How much does an agreement to mediate cost in Ireland?

This page is a free guide — nothing on it is for sale. Solicitors set their own fees for this work and must give you a written costs estimate (a section 150 letter) before starting. Get quotes through the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.

Why sign an agreement to mediate?

It sets clear ground rules, including confidentiality, disclosure and how costs are shared, so both parties know what to expect before discussions begin.

Is what is said in mediation confidential?

Mediation communications are generally confidential, subject to limited exceptions. The agreement to mediate records how confidentiality and without-prejudice status will apply.

For more on separation, children and family law, see our Family Law in Ireland guides and services.

If you would like to be told when solicitor services are available again on this site, you can join our no-fee waiting list. To instruct a solicitor now, use the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.