Key practical points:
• People's mediation committees help settle neighbor, family and minor civil disputes for free.
• Mediation is voluntary; no one is forced to accept a settlement.
• A written mediation agreement binds the parties and can be judicially confirmed to become enforceable.
• It is faster, cheaper and less adversarial than litigation, and good for preserving relationships.
• It is available to resident foreigners for many everyday disputes.
• It does not bar going to court later if mediation fails.
⚖️ Dispute resolution
People's Mediation Law · Yalla China
中华人民共和国人民调解法 / People's Mediation Law
Enacted: 2010-08-28 ✅ Effective: 2011-01-01
📝 Overview
A law on resolving disputes amicably through people's mediation committees, free and fast.
This is general information only, not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a licensed lawyer.
📜 The law text / key provisions
💬 Practical reading
💬 This is a general reading/opinion for orientation — not the official legal text nor legal advice.
If you have a minor dispute with a neighbor or in a small matter, people's mediation is a fast, free option before you think about court. A written mediation agreement is binding, and you can have it judicially confirmed to make it enforceable. If it fails, you still keep your right to go to court. General orientation, not legal advice.
📎 Official source
npc.gov.cn / Ministry of Justice
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026