Free small claims mediation, explained

Yes, almost always. It is free, it is private, it cannot be referred to at trial if it fails, and it cuts roughly 8–12 weeks off your timeline if it works.

Free small claims mediation, explained

• No fee. No legal cost. Just an hour of your time.
• Without prejudice — you can’t be punished for offers you make.
• Settled cases close in weeks, not months.
• No hearing, no witnesses, no formal proceedings.
• You and the defendant decide the outcome — not a judge who’s seen the case for an hour.

When mediation is NOT a good idea

• The defendant has flatly denied owing you anything and your case is strong.
• You want a public judgment for principle (e.g. consumer rights case as a deterrent).
• The amount is so small that a partial settlement isn’t worth your time — you might as well take the day in court.
• The defendant is using mediation to delay (rare; the mediator will spot it).