Originally from Dispute Resolution Journal

About three years ago, leaders of the major organizations in the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) field discussed the need to establish formal guidelines for the conduct of mediators. The American Arbitration Association (AAA), the American Bar Association (ABA) and the Society of Professionals in Dispute Resolution (SPIDR) then created a joint committee to draft standards that would serve as a general framework for mediators. John D. Feerick, dean of the Fordham University School of Law, and a member of the AAA board, headed the committee. The final draft has been approved by the AAA and SPIDR and awaits the vote of members of the ABA 's House of Delegates in February. The following is the text of the Standards of Conduct for Mediators.