INFORMATION GUIDE

TO THE

ADR INSTITUTE OF CANADA, INC.

AND

CHARTERED MEDIATOR (C.Med.)

CHARTERED ARBITRATOR (C.Arb.)

THE CREDENTIALS THAT MEAN RESULTS!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table of Contents

 

Committed to Helping You Grow!
Members of ADRIC benefit from various programs and services:
The Discipline of Dispute Resolution
Chartered Mediator and Chartered Arbitrator
Professional Competencies
    Chartered Arbitrator
   Chartered Mediator
Becoming a Chartered Member
   Membership Requirements
   Certification Process
   Chartered Arbitrator Certification Standards
       Chartered Arbitrator Standards Specifics
           Education
           Pactical Experience
           Skills Assessment
           Waiver
           Pledge
           Membership
   Chartered Mediator Certifcation Standards
       Chartered Mediator Standards Specifics
           Education
           Practical Experience
           Skills Assessment
           Pledge
           Membership
Membership and Program Costs
Accredited Courses in Dispute Resolution
Contact Information for National Office and All Regions

 

 

 

 

 

 

Committed to Helping You Grow!

The ADR Institute of Canada, Inc. (ADRIC) has been promoting excellence in dispute resolution in Canada since 1974. It is a national professional association, which exclusively serves the needs of arbitrators, and mediators from all sectors of the economy. It is responsible for providing training, certification, and professional development opportunities in dispute resolution.

ADRIC's mission is to provide National leadership in the development and promotion of dispute resolution in Canada by developing and promoting quality standards, practices, research, certification and professional development. ADRIC's and its members' success contributes to strengthening the dispute resolution in Canada.

ADRIC promotes and contributes to the advancement of the profession and provides opportunities to share knowledge. That's why over 1,700 members across Canada are taking advantage of membership in ADRIC and its Regional Institutes' programs and services to enhance their professional image, increase their knowledge of dispute resolution and achieve their peak professional growth. They also appreciate the opportunity to pursue the professional program leading to certification with ADRIC as a Chartered Mediator (C. Med.) and/or Chartered Arbitrator (C.Arb.).

ADRIC prepares individuals to work with new knowledge and skills and assists them to successfully participate in dispute resolution activity.

Members of ADRIC benefit from various programs and services:

Competency Standards for C.Med. and C.Arb. Professional Designations

  •     Ethical Standards

  •     Research and Advocacy

  •     Journal and Handbooks

  •     Annual Conference

  •     Information and Networking

  •     Chartered Members' Directory

  •     Learning and networking opportunities with regional affiliates and strategic partners.

  •     Preferred Liability Insurance Coverage

  •     Correspondence Course in Arbitration

  •     Rules of Procedure for Commercial Mediation and Arbitration

"ADRIC is a key player in enhancing capabilities in alternative dispute resolution."

THE DISCIPLINE OF DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Arbitration is a legal procedure in which the parties to a dispute agree to appoint one or more persons, as the arbitrator, to review the evidence and arguments of the parties and render a decision, called an award, which is binding on the parties.

Mediation is a process of intervention in a dispute or negotiation by an impartial third party who has no decision making power. The third party assists disputing parties in voluntarily reaching their own mutually acceptable settlement of issues in dispute by structuring the negotiation, maintaining the channels of communication, assisting each party to articulate their needs, identifying the issues and assisting the parties in creating alternative ideas to resolve the dispute. As the professional organization in Canada responsible for certification in this discipline ADRIC has been setting high standards. Competency standards for commercial arbitration and mediation have been established. These standards are the basis for development of curriculum used in granting education credits towards the Chartered Mediator and Chartered Arbitrator professional designations. They are also used in review of the skill assessment and practical experience requirement.

Specialists were involved in establishing the competencies, setting standards and developing policies for the program and the certification process. Chartered Mediator and Chartered Arbitrator certification is based on these standards and policies. Each candidate for the professional designation is evaluated on the competency standards and must meet the criteria and conditions.

Pursuing certification as a Chartered Mediator and/or Arbitrator will enhance your competencies and assist your practice in dispute resolution.

CHARTERED MEDIATOR AND CHARTERED ARBITRATOR

Chartered Mediators and Arbitrators are highly skilled professionals who are committed to personal career development, standards of ethical conduct and a facilitative approach to dispute resolution. Chartered members gain insight into the most advanced and up-to-date arbitration and mediation practices. As valued individuals in dispute resolution they practice in a variety of situations - for many different types of individuals and organizations. Their broad-based understanding and access to information and experience is invaluable in dealing with highly sensitive situations. Plain and simple, when it comes to resolving disputes out of court, Chartered Mediators and Arbitrators are where the action is!

Organizations throughout Canada have begun to see and appreciate the value of the services Chartered Mediators and Arbitrators. The need for timely and cost effective dispute resolution has never been greater. Chartered members provide organizations with a competitive edge in maximizing the use of time and resources. As a Chartered member an individual can experience a wide range challenges in dispute resolution.

The holder of the C.Med. and/or C.Arb. designation identifies the holder as a highly qualified dispute resolution professional in tune with today's challenges, with clearly defined and well-developed competencies that are needed in the marketplace.

ADRIC has obtained recognition under the Federal Trade Marks Act for the designation Chartered Arbitrator, C.Arb. and Arbitre Certifé, Arb.C. and Chartered Mediator, C.Med., Médiateur Certifié, Médiatrice Certifiée, Med.C. All other groups and individuals are prohibited from adopting or using any of these marks without the consent of the Institute.

PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCIES

The Chartered Mediator and Arbitrator criteria focuses on competencies that are, and will be essential for a professional active in dispute resolution. Competencies are useful in a variety of ways:

  •     serving as a base for the development of curriculum for dispute resolution courses

  •     preparing for the skills assessment

  •     identifying practical work experience requirements

  •     developing continuing professional development services

  •     conducting a self-assessment to identify areas requiring professional development

  •     in recruitment and selection of a practitioner

  •     in performance management and evaluation

The following is a listing of key competencies for the Chartered Arbitrator and Chartered Mediator:

Chartered Arbitrator

  •     The ability to organize and conduct the practice of arbitration in an efficient and effective manner;

  •     The ability to control the arbitration process in a manner which engenders mutual respect between all those involved, to communicate effectively and assist others to do so;

  •     Ability to deal with the quantity and quality of evidence in a manner which facilitates the identification and analysis of relevant issues;

  •     Ability to reach a principled decision determining the rights and liabilities of the parties and to expound that decision in the form of a reasoned award;

  •     Ability to effectively convey a decision in writing;

  •     Knowledge of the Laws of Tort Evidence and other applicable laws related to arbitration in the jurisdiction of the arbitration;

  •     Knowledge of the governing Arbitration Act (Law) in the applicable jurisdiction;

  •     Knowledge of the Institute's Code of Ethics and Rules of Conduct governing the conduct of an arbitrator generally and recognition of the importance and necessity to abide by same;

Chartered Mediator

  •     Ability to describe to the disputants the importance of confidentiality in the mediation process and how will that be maintained;

  •     Ability to listen actively and question the parties effectively and get the facts and perceptions out on the table;

  •     Ability to deal with complex factual material;

  •     Ability to analyze problems, identify and separate the issues involved, and frame these issues for resolution or decision-making;

  •     Ability to use clear, neutral language in speaking and in writing;

  •     Sensitivity to strong felt values of the disputants, including gender, ethnic, and culture differences;

  •     Ability to treat the parties equally and fairly;

  •     Commitment to honesty, dignified behaviour, respect for the parties and ability to create and maintain control of a diverse group of disputants;

  •     Ability to identify and separate the mediator's personal values from issues under consideration;

  •     Ability to understand and deal with power imbalances;

  •     Ability to preserve parties' autonomy;

  •     Ability to understand the negotiating process and the elements of effective negotiation;

  •     Ability to earn trust and develop rapport;

  •     Ability to uncover parties' needs and interests through questioning;

  •     Ability to screen out non-mediable issues;

  •     Ability to help parties invent creative options;

  •     Ability to help the parties identify principles and criteria that will guide their decision-making;

  •     Ability to help the parties assess their non settlement alternatives;

  •     Ability to help the parties make their own informed choices;

  •     Ability to help the parties assess whether or how their agreement can be implemented.

BECOMING A CHARTERED MEMBER

Membership Requirements

To be accepted as a member of ADRIC you need to be a member in good standing of a regional Institute. Check the Contact Us section for a listing of Regional Institutes.

Certification Process

A member of the Institute in good standing, who meets the standards required of a Chartered Arbitrator or Chartered Mediator, may apply for the designation on the form prescribed by the Institute.

Chartered Arbitrator Certification Standards

    %     Satisfactory completion of the educational and practical experience requirements; and
    %     Review and approval by the Regional Institute; and
    %     Signatory to a pledge to abide by the Institute's Code of Ethics; and
    %     Review and approval by the Institute's National Chartered Arbitrator Accreditation Committee and ratification by the Regional Board of Directors.

The designation is awarded by the Institute and is subject to renewal or revocation in accordance with the rules established by the Institute. The certificate presented to a successful candidate remains at all times the property of the Institute.

 

 

Chartered Arbitrator Standards Specifics

Education

Possess a degree, qualification or demonstrated expertise in a particular discipline; AND have attended and successfully completed a course or courses of study in arbitration approved by the Institute/Regional Institute.

Practical Experience

Have practiced as an arbitrator for not less than two (2) years and have chaired at least five (5) arbitrations of which at least 2 have been fee-paid. (i.e. the arbitrator has been remunerated either by fee or by salary for services rendered as an arbitrator). Evidence of same may be required and shall not be considered a breach of the Institute's confidentiality rules.

Skills Assessment

Demonstrated competency in the process of arbitration as outlined in the competency standards as determined through:

  1.   Observation and approval by a Qualifying Arbitrator through one or more of the following: co-arbitration, practicum, role-playing, video-taped arbitration or other processes approved by the Institute or,
  2.   Successful completion of a competency assessment program approved by the Institute.

Waiver

Notwithstanding the above, where the Regional Institute determines that the applicant has satisfied or exceeded I, II, and III above through proven skills and competency, longevity in practice and recognition and recommendation by peers, the requirements listed above may be waived. The decision of the Region must be supported by documented reasons for the recommendation.

Pledge

The applicant must pledge in writing to abide by the Institute's Code of Ethics.

Membership

Must be a member of good standing of the ADR Institute of Canada, Inc.

 

 

Chartered Mediator Certification Standards

    %     Satisfactory completion of the educational and practical experience and skills assessment requirements; and
    %     Review and approval by a Regional Institute; and
    %     Signatory to a pledge to abide by the Institute's Code of Ethics; and
    %     Review and approval by the Institute's National Accreditation Committee and ratification by the Institute's Board of Directors.

The designation is awarded by the Institute and is subject to renewal or revocation in accordance with the rules established by the Institute. The certificate presented to a successful candidate remains at all times the property of the Institute.

Chartered Mediator Standards Specifics

Education

  1.   Completion of at least 80 hours mediation theory and skills training in mediation training programs approved by the Institute.

And
  1. Completion of 100 hours of study or training in dispute resolution generally, the psychology of dispute resolution, negotiation, public consultation, mutual gains bargaining, communication, management consulting, conflict management, or specific substantive areas such as law, psychology, social work, counselling, etc. The specific requirements for this additional 100 hours shall be left to the discretion of each Regional Institute.

    2. Or

    In appointing a Qualifying Mediator, the Regional Institute should consider the following guidelines:

    1.   Has approximately 150 hours of mediation theory and skills training, received through recognized training programs, with at least 16 hours of that training taken within the last 12 months.
    2.   Has approximately 100 hours of mediation practice.
    3.   Experience as a mediation trainer, in the capacity of either trainer or assistant trainer/coach.

  1. Where the Regional Institute agrees by majority that the applicant has satisfied or exceeded the above through proven skills and competency, longevity in practice and recognition and recommendation by peers, the educational requirements listed above may be waived. The decision of the Regional Institute must be supported by documented reasons for the recommendation.

Practical Experience

Conducted at least 10 mediations with the applicant having been the sole mediator or the mediation chairperson in at least 5 of those mediations. Furthermore, at least 5 of the mediations conducted must have been fee paid mediations (i.e. the mediator has been remunerated either by fee or by salary for services rendered as mediator).

Skills Assessment

Demonstrated competency in the process of mediation as outlined in the competency standards and determined through:

  1.   observation and approval by a Qualifying Mediator through one or more of the following: co-mediation, practicum, role-playing, video-taped mediation or other processes approved by the Institute.

    2. Or

  2.   successful completion of a competency assessment program approved by the Institute.

    3. Or

  3.   interview between the applicant and the Regional Institute;

    4. Or

  4.   any other means of assessing an applicant's competency in the process of mediation, proposed by the applicant or the Regional Institute and approved by the Institute.

Pledge

The applicant must pledge in writing to comply with the Institute's Code of Ethics.

Membership

Must be a member of good standing of the ADR Institute of Canada, Inc. Inc.

The certification process leading to a professional designation will enhance your knowledge and identify your strengths and weaknesses in dispute resolution. It will also open doors to career opportunities and earn your colleagues and clients respect.

 

 

 

Remember, the Chartered Mediator and Chartered Arbitrator designations:

  •   require you to be up-to-date on the latest dispute resolution practices
  •   demonstrate your commitment to lifelong learning
  •   are a mark of professionalism
  •   are preferred credentials in selecting an arbitrator or mediator and provides a competitive edge

 

MEMBERSHIP AND PROGRAM COSTS

The cost of ADRIC membership or becoming a Chartered Mediator or Arbitrator will vary depending on which Regional Affiliate you are a member of. Membership dues vary based on different levels of programs and services. The fees to pursue a designation vary according the Regional Affiliates processing volume, level of volunteer activity and overhead requirements.

ACCREDITED COURSES IN DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Dispute Resolution eligible courses relate to the ADRIC competency standards and are taught by practitioners who are experts in their field. Selection criteria ensure a high degree of excellence on a national level. Eligible courses are delivered throughout Canada. Courses are primarily delivered by an onsite lecture/workshop format, but are also delivered by distance methods. For a complete and current listing check the ADRIC web site at http://www.adrcanada.ca or check with the regional affiliates listed at the back of this document.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CONTACT US

National

ADR Institute of Canada,Inc. (ADRIC
(formerly: ADR Institute of Canada, Inc. [ADRIC])     and
the Canadian Foundation for Dispute Resolution [CFDR])
(click on names for more info)
Suite 500 - 234 Eglinton Avenue   East,
Toronto, Ontario
M4P 1K5
Telephone:   1-416-487-4733
Facsimile:     1-416-487-4429
Toll-free:     1-877-475-4353
Website:       http://www.adrcanada.ca/
E-Mail:         admin@adrcanada.ca
Contact: Mary-Ann Harnick, Executive Director

 

Regional

Alberta Arbitration and Mediation Society (AAMS) (click on name for more info)
University of Lethbridge Building
#405 - 10707 - 100th Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
T5J 3M1
Telephone:   1-(780)-433-4881
Facsimile:     1-(780)-433-9024
Toll-free:     1-800-232-7214
Website:       http://www.aams.ab.ca
E-Mail:         aams@aams.ab.ca

ADR Institute of Ontario, Inc.
(formerly: Arbitration and Mediation Institute of Ontario Inc. [AMIO])(click on name for more info)
Suite 500 - 234 Eglinton Avenue East
Toronto, Ontario
M4P 1K5
Telephone:   1-(416)-487-4447
Facsimile:     1-(416)-487-4429
Website:       http://www.adrontario.ca
E-Mail:         admin@adrontario.ca
Contact: Mary-Ann Harnick, Executive Director

ADR Institute of Saskatchewan (ADRIS)
(formerly: Arbitration and Mediation Institute of Saskatchewan Inc. [AMIS]
#16, 2700 Montague Street
Regina, Saskatchewan
S4S 0J9
Telephone:   1-(306)-596-7275
Facsimile:     1-(306)-584-3395
Toll-free:     1-866-596-7275
Website:       http://www.adrsaskatchewan.ca
E-Mail:         admin@adrsaskatchewan.ca
Contact: Shirley Costron

ADR Atlantic Institute (AAI)
(Formerly: Atlantic Provinces Arbitration and Mediation Institute [APAMI])
P.O. Box 123
Halifax CRO, Nova Scotia
B3J 2M4
Telephone:   1-(902)-435-3084
Facsimile:     1-(902)-435-3084
Website:       http://www.adratlantic.ca/
E-Mail:         admin@adratlantic.ca
Contact: Barbara David, Executive Director

Arbitration and Mediation Institute of Manitoba Inc. (AMIM)
P.O. Box 436   RPO Corydon
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R3M 3V3
Telephone:   1-(204)-783-0529
Website:       http://www.amim.mb.ca
E-Mail:         info@amim.mb.ca
Contact: Johanna Effler

British Columbia Arbitration and Mediation Institute (BCAMI)
Suite 500 – 1311 Howe Street (corner of Drake & Howe)
Vancouver, British Columbia
V6Z 2P3
Telephone:   1-(604)-736-6614
Facsimile:     1-(604)-736-9233
Toll-Free (in B.C.) 1-877-332-2264 (1-877-33-bcami)
Website:      http://www.amibc.org
E-Mail:         info@amibc.org
Contact: Rosemary Mohr

Southern Interior Office:
560 Victoria Street
Kamloops, BC V2C 2B4
Telephone:   (250) 374-0244
Facsimile:     (250) 374-0249
E-Mail:         gim@mail.ocis.net
Contact: Gary More

Northern Interior Office:
5774 Deadpine Drive
Kelowna, BC, V1P 1A3
Telephone:   (250) 765-4449
Facsimile:     (250) 765-4408
E-Mail:         gbunka@idmail.com
Contact: Gillian Dougins

Vancouver Island Office
4715 Treetop Heights
Victoria, B.C. V8Y 1E2
Telephone:   (250) 370-4506
Facsimile:     (250) 370-4525
E-Mail:         resolutionaires@home.com
Contact: Clifford Jones

 


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