Course: Mediator Ethics in Virginia
Professional development opportunities for mediators and executives
Duration: 2 Hours
Available Dates:
- August 20, 2025 @ 5:30PM CST
- September 17, 2025 @ 5:30PM CST
- October 30, 2025 @ 5:30PM CST
Price: $125.00 per person
Course Description
This intensive 2-hour training delves into the fundamental ethical standards and professional responsibilities required of mediators practicing in Virginia. The course is specifically designed to align with the Standards of Ethics and Professional Responsibility for Certified Mediators adopted by the Judicial Council of Virginia, effective July 1, 2011. Confidence in the mediation process relies on mediators adhering to the highest ethical standards. This training will guide mediators in conducting themselves ethically in various practice contexts, whether in court-referred or other mediations in the Commonwealth. Participants will explore the core ethical principles, understand their practical application, and examine key statutory provisions governing mediation in Virginia. The course structure incorporates a mixture of lecture, discussion, and exercises to promote a deeper understanding of these critical ethical considerations.
Who Should Attend
This course is designed for certified mediators in Virginia seeking to maintain their certification through Continuing Mediator Education. It is relevant for certified mediators at all levels (General District Court, Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, Circuit Court–Family, Circuit Court–Civil, and Appellate). Mediators who also serve as trainers or mentors may find this course particularly valuable as the Standards apply to these capacities as well.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the purpose and scope of the Virginia Standards of Ethics and Professional Responsibility for Certified Mediators.
- Identify and apply the principles of Self-Determination (Standard I) and Impartiality (Standard II) as defined by the Standards.
- Recognize and appropriately address Conflicts of Interest (Standard III), including making reasonable inquiries and disclosures.
- Explain the requirements for Confidentiality (Standard V), including mandatory statutory language and exceptions.
- Assess the Appropriateness of the Mediation (Standard C) and determine when to decline, postpone, withdraw from, or terminate a mediation based on ethical considerations (Standard C, Standard VI).
- Maintain the Quality of the Process (Standard VI), ensuring diligence, safety, procedural fairness, and mutual respect.
- Understand ethical guidelines related to Competence (Standard IV), Fees (Standard VIII), and Advertising(Standard VII).
Focus on Virginia Statutory Language
The course will incorporate and analyze relevant sections of the Code of Virginia, Chapter 21.2. Mediation, and other pertinent statutes, highlighting how they inform and mandate ethical conduct for certified mediators. Key statutory provisions discussed will include:
- § 8.01-581.21: Definitions of “Mediation” and “Mediator”.
- § 8.01-581.22: Confidentiality and its exceptions, including the specific language required in the Agreement to Mediate.
- § 8.01-581.23: Civil immunity for mediators.
- § 8.01-581.24: Standards and duties of mediators, confidentiality, and liability.
- § 8.01-581.26: Grounds for vacating mediated agreements.
- § 8.01-576.4: Definitions relevant to court-referred mediation, including “Orientation session”.
- § 8.01-576.9: Confidentiality in court-referred cases and reporting requirements to the court.
- § 63.2-1509: Mandatory reporting obligations, such as allegations of child abuse.
Participants will examine how these statutes intersect with and reinforce the ethical standards, providing a legal framework for ethical practice in Virginia.
Planned Learning Outcomes
Participants will leave the course with:
- Increased confidence in identifying and navigating common ethical dilemmas encountered in mediation practice.
- A thorough understanding of their ethical obligations regarding impartiality, conflicts of interest, and confidentiality under Virginia law and ethical standards.
- The ability to articulate and implement the principle of party self-determination while maintaining the integrity and quality of the mediation process.
- Practical knowledge of relevant Virginia Code sections related to mediation ethics, particularly concerning confidentiality and reporting requirements.
- Enhanced skills for maintaining competence and upholding the reputation of the mediation profession in Virginia.
Contact Us
Ready to begin your transformation? Creer Un Espace, LLC is here to support you in achieving your organizational goals. Reach out today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve lasting success.
- PO Box 14136, Chicago, IL 60614
- (773) 619-1066
- marcia@creerunespace.com
