Mediation in Latvia

Quick Facts

• Legal Framework: Mediation in civil law cases is regulated by Mediation Law, Civil Procedure Law and Cabinet of Ministers Regulations No. 433. For criminal cases, mediation is regulated by specific provisions. Latvia ...
• Cultural Approach: Latvian society increasingly recognises mediation as an efficient dispute resolution method. The state-funded family mediation programme reflects government commitment to promoting mediation. The cult...
• Typical Costs: The State-budget-funded programme provides five free mediation sessions for family disputes affecting children's interests. For other types of disputes, mediator fees are determined by market rates an...

Mediation Research

Legal Framework

Mediation in civil law cases is regulated by Mediation Law, Civil Procedure Law and Cabinet of Ministers Regulations No. 433. For criminal cases, mediation is regulated by specific provisions. Latvia follows EU Directive on mediation as an EU member state. The legal framework provides for both certified mediators and court-referred mediation processes.

Court System

Courts can refer cases to mediation under the Civil Procedure Law. The court system supports ADR through judicial encouragement of mediation. The State-budget-funded programme provides individuals with State support for family mediation, giving them the opportunity to attend five free sessions with a certified mediator to resolve disagreements between parents that affect children's interests.

Mediator Regulations

There are two types of mediators in Latvia: certified mediators and court mediators. Certified mediators undergo specific training and certification processes. Professional standards are established through the Mediation Law and related regulations. The certification process ensures mediators meet qualification requirements.

Cultural Approach

Latvian society increasingly recognises mediation as an efficient dispute resolution method. The state-funded family mediation programme reflects government commitment to promoting mediation. The cultural approach reflects EU membership and civil law heritage with growing acceptance of ADR methods.

Typical Costs

The State-budget-funded programme provides five free mediation sessions for family disputes affecting children's interests. For other types of disputes, mediator fees are determined by market rates and agreement between parties. Court-referred mediation may have subsidized rates. Costs are typically shared between parties unless otherwise agreed. EU funding may support certain ADR services.

States and Regions