Becoming a Mediator

What do mediators do?
The mediator guides the process to give all the parties an opportunity to be heard, identify the issues to be resolved, generate possible alternatives, and help parties reach voluntary agreements that are acceptable to all. The mediator will not give advice, decide who is right or wrong, or suggest a particular solution. Rather, the mediator helps the disputants come up with their own solution. If an agreement is reached, the mediator writes a Memorandum of Agreement, outlining the terms and the responsibilities of each party.

Certification Requirements
All mediators at the Mediation Center of Charlottesville must be certified by the Supreme Court of Virginia. There are four levels of certification (see table below).
Download a PDF of this Certification Table.

An applicant for certification shall have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or shall submit evidence of relevant experience and qualifications sufficient to support certification.

To be recertified, required every 2 years, a mediator must take continuing mediator education classes (8 hours) and mediate a minimum of 5 cases.

For more information on mediation and certification requirements, see
http://www.courts.state.va.us/courtadmin/aoc/djs/programs/drs/mediation/home.html

Helpful Things to Consider Before Becoming a Mediator

Description of Training & Workshops

Current Training & Workshops Schedule