Things to consider when choosing a Mediator

Wikipedia offers explanation of Mediation, as well as a checklist of things to take into account when choosing a Mediator.  It is important to take time in deciding the Mediator who would work best for your situation.  Some qualities may be more important than others, depending on your needs, but this is a basic guide to the questions you should ask:

1. ■Personal Attributes - qualities and characteristics which are innate, as opposed to skills and techniques which can be learned and developed. In this concept a number of desirable attributes for mediators include interpersonal skills, patience, empathy, intelligence, optimism and flexibility.
   

2. ■Mediation qualifications, experience and background. Qualifications usually revolve around knowledge of the theory and practice of conflict, negotiation and mediation, mediations skills, and attitudes appropriate for mediation. There are three factors of relevance: experience in practice of mediation, experience in the substantive area of dispute, and personal life experience.
   

3. ■the mediator's training
   

4. ■the mediator's professional background
   

5. ■the mediator's certification
   

6. ■the mediation model offered, and whether it suits the case (or can be tailored as such)
   

7. ■any conflict of interest the mediator may have
   

8. ■the mediator's willingness to allow, and possibly encourage, mediation participants to seek creative solutions
   

9. ■the mediator's fee
   

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediation