Question 1

What credentials do directory mediators have?

Accepted Answer

California does not issue a general state mediator license or certification, so any credential a mediator holds is voluntary. Directory mediators may hold one or more of the credentials set out in our published mediator standards: California Dispute Resolution Council (CDRC) certified mediator, Southern California Mediation Association (SCMA) member with a practice listing, active panel membership with JAMS, AAA, ADR Services or Signature Resolution, California Superior Court ADR panel certification, retired California judge, or California Civil Rights Department mediator panel. Credentials are collected as self-attestation. Supporting documents and a certificate of insurance are requested by email before approval and before any first engagement. See the mediator standards page for the full requirements.

Question 2

Are resolution sessions confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Once a mediation is under way with an independent mediator, communications are generally protected under California Evidence Code section 1119, which makes anything said and any writing prepared for the purpose of, in the course of, or pursuant to a mediation inadmissible and not subject to discovery in a noncriminal proceeding, subject to the exceptions in Evidence Code sections 1115 to 1128. Pre-launch, no mediation has commenced through the platform, so that statutory protection has not attached and platform communications are confidential by contract under Section 7 of the Terms of Service instead.

Question 3

How is a mediator selected?

Accepted Answer

At launch, if both parties elect mediation, each ranks the same list and the platform computes the selection from both rankings (Terms of Service Section 13.3). When fewer than five mediators qualify, the list is every qualifying mediator. Neither party selects a mediator alone.

Question 4

How are directory mediators reviewed?

Accepted Answer

Mediators on the directory are independent professionals. Applicants attest to their credentials and practice history. Supporting documents and a certificate of insurance are requested by email before approval and before any first engagement. Wiser Workplace checks what can be checked against public sources. Qualifications vary by mediator, and at launch each mediator's qualifications are shown on the directory listing.

Find a California Employment Mediator - Wiser Workplace