Table of Contents
Court mediation — process + outcomes (2026 guide)
Quick answer: Mediation is structured negotiation at District Mediation Centres + HC Mediation Centres. Free + confidential + voluntary. Mediation Act 2023 strengthens framework. Decisions binding when accepted.
Key facts
- Mediation Act 2023 (operational since Oct 2023)
- District Mediation Centres at every court complex
- High Court Mediation Centres at most HCs
- Free + voluntary + confidential
- Mediator: trained lawyer / advocate / judge (retired)
- Decision binding only when accepted by both parties
Step-by-step
- Apply for mediation — Court refers; or both parties apply jointly.
- Mediation date + mediator assigned — Within 30 days.
- Joint session — opening — Mediator explains process.
- Caucus / private discussions — Mediator with each side.
- Negotiation + drafting — Joint or shuttle.
- Settlement deed signed — If agreed; final + binding.
Common issues
- Mediation refused by other party — voluntary; can't force.
- Mediator partiality alleged — request alternate; or escalate to centre director.
- Settlement not implemented — execution petition.
- Mediation centre full — RTI for queue + capacity.
If stuck — file an RTI
Court records are split: judicial records (case file, orders) follow CPC rules + court counter; administrative records (vacancy, infrastructure, listing logic, judges' assets) are disclosable via RTI to the court PIO.
1. Status of my case no. _____ as on date. 2. Reasons for delay / non-listing in past 30 days. 3. Number of similar cases pending + disposed in past 12 months. 4. Procedure to seek certified copy / file inspection. 5. Name + designation of court PIO + appellate authority.
Auto-fill the PIO + your case: Open the AI RTI Drafter →
Frequently asked questions
Cost?
Free at District + HC Mediation Centres.
Confidentiality?
Yes — mediator can't disclose. Settlement document is the only public output.
Mediation Act 2023 — what changed?
Pre-litigation mediation mandatory for some commercial disputes; institutional framework.
Mediator selection?
Centre allocates; can request alternate with reason.
Summary + next step
Bottom line: Mediation is structured negotiation at District Mediation Centres + HC Mediation Centres. Free + confidential + voluntary. Mediation Act 2023 strengthens framework. Decisions binding when accepted.
- AI RTI Drafter: Auto-fill PIO + your case
- Browse all eCourts guides: eCourts index
- Helplines + grievance: 32 helplines
Related
Last reviewed: 26 April 2026.

