How To Become A Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediator!
On May 11, 2006 the Florida Supreme Court issued its first opinion in SC05-998. This opinion and Administrative Order AOSC06-09 significantly changed the protocol for certification of mediators and for renewal of certifications. With an effective date of August 1, 2006 it added a minimum age requirement of 21 and replaced the former mandatory education/profession-based requirements with a more flexible point system based on training, education/experience and mentorship.
On November 15, 2007 the Florida Supreme Court issued its second opinion in SC05-998 removing the Bar membership requirement of certified Circuit Court Mediators and amended the Florida Rules for Certified and Court-Appointed Mediators to provide a true point-based mediator certification system. The Court removed the point system from Administrative Order AOSC06-09 and incorporated it into the rules.
The Court also issued Administrative Order AOSC07-57 which explains, among other important details, the procedure and time limitations for certification, application and certification fees, mentorship requirements and continuing mediator education. Read the opinion [PDF] and Administrative Order as well as the Rule Qualifications for Certification [PDF].
In order to assist you in understanding the application process and certification, the Dispute Resolution Center has created How to Become A Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediator. Read this Step By Step Guide [PDF].
Please Note: In order to accumulate the 25 point minimum in the category of Education/Mediation Experience for Circuit Civil or Family certification, you must have either [A] a Master's Degree or higher, OR [B] a Bachelor's Degree [20 points] and have substantial mediation experience [yielding at least 5 points] or have earned a graduate certificate in Conflict Resolution [5 points].
If you have any questions about your qualifications for certification or the point system contact the Dispute Resolution Center at 850.921.2910.
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