Mediation in Singapore

Quick Facts

• Legal Framework: Mediation in Singapore follows the Mediation Act of 2017, which implements the Singapore Convention on Mediation. The Act defines mediation as a voluntary and confidential process for resolving disput...
• Cultural Approach: Singaporean mediation culture emphasises pragmatism and efficiency. There is strong acceptance of mediation as an alternative to litigation. The approach tends to be informal and solution-oriented. Si...
• Typical Costs: Commercial mediation in Singapore typically costs SGD 300-600 per hour or daily rates of SGD 2,000-4,000. Family mediation typically costs SGD 200-400 per hour. Court-annexed mediation may be subsidis...

Mediation Research

Legal Framework

Mediation in Singapore follows the Mediation Act of 2017, which implements the Singapore Convention on Mediation. The Act defines mediation as a voluntary and confidential process for resolving disputes. Singapore has a well developed court annexed mediation system through the Community Mediation Centres. The Civil Procedure Code contains provisions for court annexed mediation. Family mediation is regulated by specific provisions in the Women's Charter. The Act provides a legal framework for mediation, including confidentiality provisions and the enforceability of mediation agreements.

Court System

Singapore courts actively encourage mediation before proceeding to trial. Courts may refer parties to mediation and can adjourn proceedings to allow mediation to occur. Court-annexed mediation is available throughout Singapore. The judiciary has implemented mediation programmes in many courts, particularly in family courts. Judges may suggest mediation at any stage of proceedings. Courts may consider costs orders where parties unreasonably refuse to mediate. The court system works closely with professional mediators and mediation organisations.

Mediator Regulations

Mediators in Singapore are not required to be lawyers, but many are. The Singapore Mediation Centre provides certification for mediators. To become a certified mediator, one must complete training programmes approved by the Centre. The training includes theoretical and practical components, typically 40+ hours. Certified mediators must complete continuing education requirements. There are several professional associations for mediators in Singapore, including the Singapore Mediation Association. Mediators must adhere to ethical codes of conduct.

Cultural Approach

Singaporean mediation culture emphasises pragmatism and efficiency. There is strong acceptance of mediation as an alternative to litigation. The approach tends to be informal and solution-oriented. Singaporean mediators often take a facilitative role in helping parties reach agreements. The cultural context values practical solutions and efficiency. Family mediation is particularly well developed. Commercial mediation is widely used in business circles. Singapore has a strong tradition of alternative dispute resolution.

Typical Costs

Commercial mediation in Singapore typically costs SGD 300-600 per hour or daily rates of SGD 2,000-4,000. Family mediation typically costs SGD 200-400 per hour. Court-annexed mediation may be subsidised or available at reduced rates. Small claims mediation may be free or low-cost. Costs are typically shared between parties unless otherwise agreed. Legal Aid may be available for family mediation in eligible cases. Mediation costs are generally tax-deductible for businesses. The cost savings compared to litigation are significant.

Sources

• Mediation Act of 2017 (legislation)
• Singapore Ministry of Law (government)
• Singapore Mediation Centre (organisation)
• Singapore Mediation Association (organisation)
• Singapore International Arbitration Centre (organisation)
• New York Convention - Singapore (organisation)

States and Regions