Become a Mediator in Washington D.C.

Washington, D.C. has different requirements for mediators in private settings and in the courts. Becoming a mediator in private settings requires an education and training in private mediation practices. Becoming a mediator in courts requires you to undergo a communication style assessment, complete both training and co-mediation mentor programs, work a set number of hours as a mediator and undergo performance assessments. Read the following steps to find out how to become a mediator in Washington, D.C.

Steps

To Become A Mediator in Private Settings

  1. Understand the professional opportunities in mediation.
    • Mediators in Washington, D.C. can be self-employed, work for government or private organizations, or for the judicial system.
    • There are opportunities to work full time or part time, and to have a salaried position or work pro-bono.
  2. Get an education. Though there are no requirements to become a mediator in a private setting in Washington, D.C., most mediators have an education and/or a career history that allows them to bring knowledge and experience to the mediation profession.
    • There are universities that offer certificate programs and degrees in conflict resolution, dispute management and mediation that can offer a sound foundation to become a mediator in Washington, D.C.
  3. Obtain training in private mediation practices for Washington, D.C.
    • Courses in mediation are offered by state-sponsored programs, mediation associations, educational institutions, and private mediation organizations.
    • Choose a basic course that offers a minimum of 40 hours training, whether that is online, in a classroom setting, or by means of home study materials. Make sure the course covers at least negotiation skills, communication, diversity, and research techniques.
    • You can also choose a specialty such as courtroom mediation, elections, and custody.
    • Some universities offer postgraduate certifications in mediation, which may include an internship and generally require 12 credits.

To Become a Mediator in the Courts

  1. Become a staff member or volunteer at the Superior Court Multi-Door Dispute Resolution Division's Mediation Program. There are different qualifications for different types of mediators.
    • To become a small claims mediator, you must successfully complete a selection orientation to evaluate your communication style, followed by 40 hours of accredited training. You'll also have to co-mediate with various mentors until you're approved as a probationary mediator, complete a predetermined number of hours of mediation and undergo evaluations of your performance.
    • To become a family mediator, you'll have to prove your communication style is appropriate and complete 55 hours of accredited training. You'll work with a number of mentors until you're officially approved as a probationary mediator. You'll also have to complete a set number of hours of mediation and undergo performance evaluations.
    • To become a civil court mediator you must be a licensed attorney and a member of the bar of any jurisdiction in the U.S. (whether active or inactive is irrelevant). You'll need to undergo 27 hours of approved training, perform 6 hours of pro-bono mediation, and mediate 17 cases over the course of 12 months. You'll also have to participate in performance assessment as well as in-service training programs.

References

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