BDR Fees and Policies
Clearly Defined Service Packages. No Small Print.
For mediation, Bertram Dispute offers three inclusive, defined service options. Pricing differs according to the duration of the mediation session. We want all parties and counsel to clearly understand the scope of service and what it will cost.
BDR does not charge separate administrative fees. A typical BDR mediation package covers time for reasonable advance preparation, post-session follow-up, and all administrative work in addition to the formal mediation session.
| Cost | |
|---|---|
Half day
|
$2400 |
6 Hours:
|
$3200 |
Full day:
|
$4200 |
An additional fee of $150 per party will be charged in all mediations involving three or more parties.
When sessions run past the allotted time, BDR may, at its discretion, round charges up to the next defined service level or bill the additional time at the hourly rate of $475.
Arbitration Fees
BDR charges $475. per hour or a daily hearing rate of $4500.
BDR requires prepayment for all mediation and arbitration services. For arbitrations, BDR will prepare an invoice of estimated costs and expenses based on a preliminary consultation with attorneys. As the case progresses, supplemental invoices may be necessary, and payment of all invoices is due upon receipt. Once the matter is completed, any unexpended balance will be returned to the parties.
Transaction Policies
Payment for BDR mediation services is due in advance. Payment deadlines are as follows:
| Mediation Session | Payment / Cancellation Deadline |
|---|---|
| Up to one 8-hour session (Package options 1, 2 and 3 above) |
14 days prior to session date |
| Sessions in excess of one full day | 30 days prior to session date |
| Sessions booked less than 14 days in advance | Immediate |
If payment for a mediation is not received by the applicable deadline BDR may remove the case from its calendar.
Payment for BDR arbitration services will be due at the time an arbitration is scheduled.
Cancellation Policies
Cancellation notices must be received in writing. If a booked session is cancelled prior to the applicable payment deadline, no fee is due.
Mediation Cancellation — If a mediation is cancelled after the payment deadline and BDR cannot reassign the mediator to another matter in the time period booked, the fee will be retained. In the event of a cancellation, BDR will make its best effort to rebook mediators during the time period involved.
If a mediation is canceled by one party unilaterally after the payment deadline, the canceling party bears the cost.
Arbitration Cancellation — A cancellation fee will apply if an arbitration hearing date is cancelled after the following deadlines and BDR cannot reassign the arbitrator to another matter in the time period booked:
| Arbitration Hearing | Payment / Cancellation Deadline |
|---|---|
| Hearing of one day or less | 14 days prior to session date |
| Hearing of two to five days | 30 days prior to session date |
| Hearing greater than five days | 42 days prior to session date |
Costs Not Included in Service Fees
- Costs associated with procuring a neutral venue for mediation or arbitration sessions (hotel conference facilities, etc.).
- Costs associated with travel outside the Seattle, Washington metropolitan area, although BDR neutrals do not charge for travel time.