A recent decree by the Polish Minister of Justice has come into effect, establishing much higher compensation rates for mediators in civil matters, which are largely borne by the disputing parties. The need for these changes is underscored by the fact that the previous compensation rates had remained unchanged since 2016, despite increasing living expenses and operational costs for businesses. The regulation aims to better reflect the current economic conditions faced by mediators.

The minimum fee for mediation has been dramatically increased from 150 PLN to 300 PLN, representing a noteworthy 100% hike. Mediator fees are typically shared between the parties involved in the dispute, unless a different agreement is made. This adjustment not only aims to provide fair compensation to mediators but also to incentivize conflict resolution processes, which can alleviate the burden on the judiciary.

Additionally, the decree introduces a new limit on reimbursable expenses incurred by mediators during civil proceedings. This includes costs like travel, room rental, and correspondence, which have traditionally added further financial strains to those engaging in mediation. This comprehensive update marks a significant shift in how mediation is structured and funded in Poland, potentially enhancing its acceptance as a viable alternative dispute resolution method.