Mediation Training

Mediation, also known as alternative and dispute resolution (ADR), is a confidential and voluntary process that many people choose to resolve legal disputes outside the courtroom. Due to the increasing cost of lawyers, litigation processes, strikes or other disruptions, dispute resolutions are now increasing significantly.

Mediators, more known as arbitrators and conciliators, facilitate the ADR process to help people resolve difficult issues and settle an agreement. All parties involved in mediation propose their own solutions but the mediator does not have any power on decision-making over the result.

What are the duties and responsibilities of a mediator?

A mediator assists the parties in negotiating and resolving their dispute. The duties of a mediator start even before the actual mediation conference commences. He decides where the mediation conference will take place, whether to mediate in one or more meetings and what to do between meetings. He also determines whether to form a caucus, to give assignments to the disputing parties, to help participants to be more effective personally, to assist in developing alternatives, to make use of the internet, to recommend useful resource information, etc.

Specific duties of a mediator may include:

Describing the mediation process and the function of the mediator
Gathering the necessary information and identify the issues and interests to advance the discussion further
Facilitating the discussion and controlling the direction of negotiations
Assuring that all relevant information is brought forth during the mediation process
Proposing all possible solutions to resolve the disputed issues between the parties
Recommending a solution
Helping both parties settle their dispute

Other secondary duties of a mediator may also involve:

Arriving at the place of mediation before the schedule to set the room in a conducive manner
Ensuring all chairs, forms, papers, and pens are available
Preparing court reports, social case histories, correspondence and other documents
Implementing legislative enactments and court rules relating to a case
Being well-informed and updated of current trends, rules and legislation

What are the requirements to become a mediator?

A lot of mediators are private lawyers and former judges, although mediators from other fields and backgrounds are entering the profession. Mediators do not have formal licensing or certification process required.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, training for mediators is available through national and local mediation membership organizations, independent mediation programs, and postsecondary schools. Some colleges and universities are now starting to offer advanced courses in dispute resolution and conflict management.

Individuals who want to become mediators must have excellent communication, analytical, problem-solving, negotiation, and resolution skills. They must also be able to exercise good judgment and discretion and maintain confidence. They must also have people skills to work with others and promote effective working relationships with clients, courts, judicial staff, community agencies, and the general public.

Earn Your Mediation Degree Online

We recommend getting information from several schools so you can compare the programs, costs, time commitments and financial aid options.

How much does a mediator earn?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the mediators earn from $28,090 to $102,202 each year. The median annual wage is approximately $49,490 or $23.80 per hour.

Most mediators are employed by the state and local government, legal service providers, schools and universities, private corporations, and insurance carriers.

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