Ethics Code For Mediators

The North Dakota Supreme Court is considering adoption of a proposed code of ethics for mediators. The court states:

The purpose of this Code of Ethics is to provide standards of ethical conduct to guide mediators who provide mediation services, to inform and protect consumers of mediation services, and to ensure the integrity of the mediation process. In order for mediation to be effective, there must be broad public confidence in the integrity of the process. Mediators have a responsibility not only to the parties and the legal system, but also to the continuing improvement of the process. They must observe high standards of ethical conduct. These provisions should be construed to advance these objectives.

Mediators should orient the parties to the process before beginning a mediation. Mediators must not practice, condone, facilitate, or promote any form of discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, economic status, disability, sexual orientation, or age. Mediators must be aware that cultural differences may affect a party’s values, decisions, and conduct in mediation.

The court also has proposed a mechanism to enforce the rules. (Mike Frisch)