A decree dated July 18, 2025, which came into force on September 1, reinforces the role of amicable dispute resolution methods in legal proceedings in France. The aim is to give more prominence to amicable settlement by developing the use of conciliation, mediation, arbitration, and other dispute resolution methods. The key point is that this decree aims to make these methods of conflict resolution more transparent and attractive.
Among the measures implemented are the introduction of “amicable settlement hearings” into the French Code of Civil Procedure, extended powers for judges to use amicable settlement methods, a new civil fine if the parties do not attend the information meeting on conciliation or mediation ordered by the judge (fine capped at €10,000), the conventional investigation of civil proceedings as the norm (preparation of the case file by the parties) as opposed to judicial investigation for future cases, and finally, the securing of amicable agreements, which become enforceable.
To read this decree (currently available in French only) : https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000051919659
