- HONG KONG
Guide To Mediation & The Top Family Mediators In Hong Kong
Pros & Cons Of Mediation, Costs, & Where To Go For Mediation Services
Family mediation is a voluntary, confidential process that helps separating or divorcing couples resolve disputes—such as those involving children, finances, or property—without going to court. A neutral mediator facilitates communication and supports both parties in reaching fair, practical agreements.
In emotionally charged situations like divorce or child custody, mediation is often a preferred alternative to litigation. It encourages cooperation, reduces conflict, and prioritizes the well-being of families.
In Hong Kong, family mediation is actively promoted by the courts and supported by respected institutions such as the Hong Kong Family Welfare Society (HKFWS), HKMAAL, and the Joint Mediation Helpline Office (JMHO).
In this guide, we cover:
- What family mediation is and how it works
- Pros and cons of mediation
- How to choose the right mediator
- Average costs of mediation in Hong Kong
- Top mediation services and organizations
- A curated list of Hong Kong’s leading family mediators
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When To Choose Family Mediation Over Other Resolution Methods
Pros & Cons Of Family MediationPros of family mediation
- Confidentiality
Mediation is private. Unlike court proceedings, what’s said stays between the parties and the mediator. - Cost-Effective
Mediation is generally less expensive than hiring lawyers and going through lengthy court battles. - Faster Resolution
Disputes are often resolved in a matter of weeks or months, not years. - Child-Focused
Mediators help parents prioritize the best interests of their children and reduce emotional harm. - Preserves Relationships
Especially useful in co-parenting scenarios, mediation helps maintain or improve communication between parties. - Control Over Outcome
You and your partner decide the terms, not a judge. - Voluntary and Flexible
You can enter or leave mediation at any time. The process is tailored to suit each family’s needs.
Cons of family mediation
- Not Legally Binding (Until Formalized)
Agreements reached in mediation are not enforceable unless converted into a court order or deed. - Requires Cooperation
If one party refuses to participate in good faith, the process may fail. - Power Imbalances
Without a skilled mediator, one party may dominate or manipulate the process. - Not Suitable for Serious Abuse Cases
Mediation is not appropriate in cases involving domestic violence, coercion, or threats. - May Not Resolve All Issues
Some disputes still end up in court if parties can't agree on key points.
- Confidentiality
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How To Choose The Right Family Mediator
Factors To Look Out ForChoosing the right mediator is critical. Look for:
- HKMAAL Accreditation
- Specialization in family disputes
- Empathetic and neutral communication style
- Language and cultural competence
- Transparent fees and access to subsidized services
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Average Costs Of Mediation In Hong Kong
What You Can Expect For MediationThe cost of family mediation in Hong Kong can vary depending on the mediator’s qualifications, the complexity of the dispute, and whether the service is provided through a private practice or a subsidized organization.
Typical Fee Ranges
Service Type Average Cost (HK$) Initial consultation (1–1.5 hours) $800 – $3,000 Private mediator (per hour) $1,500 – $5,000 NGO-subsidized mediator (per session) $300 – $1,200 Full mediation package (3–5 sessions) $10,000 – $25,000+ Note: Sessions usually last 1.5 to 2 hours. A full mediation process may take 2 to 6 sessions, depending on the complexity and willingness of the parties to cooperate.
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Top Family Mediation Institutions In Hong Kong
For Mediation Services & Training1. Hong Kong Family Welfare Society (HKFWS)
Offers professional, affordable family mediation and counseling services.
2. Joint Mediation Helpline Office (JMHO)
Provides referrals to accredited family mediators and promotes mediation awareness.
3. The Law Society of Hong Kong
Maintains a panel of lawyer-mediators specializing in family law.
4. Hong Kong Catholic Marriage Advisory Council (HKCMAC)
Offers marital mediation and reconciliation services with an emphasis on emotional well-being.
5. HKMAAL – Family Mediators Panel
The official registry of accredited family mediators in Hong Kong.
- Featured
Sala Sihombing
Highly Accredited Mediator In Hong KongSala Sihombing is a full-time HKMAAL-accredited family mediator and conflict management coach with over 20 years of experience. She is also accredited by HKIAC, NMAS (Australia), FINRA (USA), and CEDR (UK), and is a Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.
With a background in law and investment banking, Sala brings a practical, structured approach to emotionally complex family disputes. She helps clients reach clear, respectful agreements on parenting, finances, and separation without going to court.
Sala trained at the Straus Institute, apprenticed under Robyn Hooworth, and teaches family mediation at the University of Hong Kong (HKU). She is also co-author of Mediation in Hong Kong: Law and Practice and other leading publications in the field.
Sala Sihombing, sala@conflictchange.com, https://conflictchange.com/
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Sharon Ser
Highly-Experienced MediatorWith 40 years of experience in family law and as a founding partner of RKS, Sharon Ser is a renowned authority in complex family litigation and mediation. She’s known for her pragmatic, client-focused approach and has handled some of Hong Kong’s most significant matrimonial and financial cases. Sharon is widely recognized for her leadership in shaping Hong Kong’s family law landscape.
Sharon Ser, 11/F Ruttonjee House, 11 Duddell Street, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2896 2818, https://rkslaws.com/solicitors/sharon-ser/
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Nick Gall
Expert In Financial DisputesNick Gall is a founding partner of Gall and a seasoned litigator with significant experience in high-net-worth family disputes. He is especially effective in mediation settings involving financial complexity and cross-border considerations. His commercial insight adds unique value to family proceedings.
Nick Gall, 3/F, Dina House, Ruttonjee Centre, 11 Duddell Street, Central, Hong Kong, +852 3405 7688, https://www.gallhk.com/expertise/mediation/
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Kay K.W. Chan
Specialized In High-Conflict ResolutionKay K.W. Chan is a seasoned barrister and family mediator with a diverse legal practice spanning family, criminal, civil, and public law. Recognised by the Doyle’s Guide 2025 as a Leading Family & Divorce Mediator, Kay is also a Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL) and a Collaborative Professional with expertise in alternative dispute resolution. He has handled multicultural family breakdowns, cross-border estate disputes, and trust-related family issues, making him particularly effective in complex, high-conflict cases. His calm, analytical style is paired with a strong command of both legal advocacy and mediation techniques.
Kay K.W. Chan, Room 403, Fairmont House, Cotton Tree Drive, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2527 8226, kaykwchan@gmail.com, https://admiraltychambers.com.hk/our-members/kay-chan/
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Robin Nelson Egerton
Skilled Barrister & MediatorRobin is a respected barrister and mediator with deep expertise in matrimonial finance, child arrangements, and cross-jurisdictional family matters. His calm, analytical style makes him particularly effective in high-conflict mediations and complex asset cases.
Robin Nelson Egerton, Parkside Chamber, Pacific Place, +852 2840 1130, robin.egerton@parksidechambers.com, https://parksidechambers.com.hk/people/robin-nelson-egerton/
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Elsie Liu
Specialized In Emotionally Complex CasesElsie Liu is a specialist in family law and mediation, handling sensitive matters such as domestic violence, custodial disputes, and financial settlements. Her empathetic style and deep legal expertise make her a trusted advisor in emotionally complex cases. She speaks English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.
Elsie Liu, 7th Floor, Ruttonjee House, 11 Duddell Street, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2230 2854, elsie.liu@haldanes.com, https://www.haldanes.com/lawyers/elsie-liu/
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Gregory Payne
Specialist In High Value Divorce CasesGregory Payne is the Founder and Senior Partner of Payne Velasco, with over 30 years of legal experience in Hong Kong. A HKIAC-accredited mediator, Greg focuses on high-value divorce cases, particularly those involving trusts, hidden assets, and complex international elements. His background in fraud litigation and asset recovery gives him a unique edge in uncovering concealed marital property. Greg is known for his strategic, pragmatic approach and has built long-standing client relationships based on trust and results. He regularly represents clients in mediation, helping them resolve disputes efficiently without resorting to litigation.
Gregory Payne, Units 2401-2403, 135 Bonham Strand Trade Centre, 135 Bonham Strand, Hong Kong, +852 2527 9538, enquiry@paynevelasco.com, https://paynevelasco.com/gregory-payne/
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