How to CHOOSE an ADR Specialist

In partnership with the ADR Institute of Canada (ADRIC), ADRIA administers the only official designations for practicing mediators and arbitrators in Canada. These designations show that the practitioner meets specific professional criteria, keeps current in the field, and adheres to a professional Code of Ethics. There are four designations:

Qualified Mediator (Q.Med)

A Qualified Mediator has a minimum of 80 hours mediation and conflict resolution training, has completed at least three mediations within three years of receiving the designation, and demonstrates an ongoing commitment to professional development. The Q.Med is a stepping stone to getting a Chartered Mediator designation, or can be a secondary qualification to another profession, such as Management, Human Resources, or Law.

Chartered Mediator (C.Med)

A Chartered Mediator has a minimum of 180 hours of mediation and conflict resolution training, has passed a skills assessment, has completed at least 15 paid mediations, demonstrates an ongoing commitment to professional development, follows a Code of Ethics, and must carry professional liability insurance. 

Qualified Arbitrator (Q.Arb)

A Qualified Arbitrator has at least 40 hours of training in Arbitration and has completed an open-book exam. A Q.Arb must abide by ADRIC's Code of Ethics, carry professional liability insurance, and show an ongoing commitment to professional development.

Chartered Arbitrator (C.Arb)

A Chartered Arbitrator must be a professional in a particular discipline and have completed training in arbitration. A C.Arb has practiced as an arbitrator for at least two years and chaired at least 10 paid arbitrations, has successfully completed a competency assessment program, follows ADRIC's Code of Ethics, and must carry professional liability insurance.

• Do you have a professional designation?
• What is your training?
  
• What is your experience in this area?
• What style of ADR do you use?
• Are you a member of a professional organization?
•  Do you follow a code of ethics?
• What recourse do I have if I am unhappy with the service I receive? 
• Do you carry professional liability insurance?