The amount and type of training, education and experience required to join the WAMS neutral panels is not determined by statutory certification guidelines, but by WAMS as the supervising ADR administrative organization. Prospective WAMS mediators and arbitrators are generally identified by clients or neutrals who may have encountered the prospective neutral as an advocate or by recommendation from other attorneys or organizations. Applicants normally have at least 10 years of law practice experience with at least one area of special emphasis.

Mediation Panel

In addition to having personal and professional recommendations, the threshold requirements for joining the WAMS mediation panel include:

• adherence to the highest standards of ethical conduct as evidenced by the applicant’s legal career and other aspects of personal and professional life;
• acceptance of the published WAMS Standards of Neutrality and Professional Responsibility;
• participation in a WAMS-sponsored or recognized basic mediator training; program consisting of at least 30 combined hours of in-class, supervised training, assigned reading, mediation DVD review and successful completion of an apprentice period by participating in at least two mediator shadowing opportunities and conducting one supervised, pro bono mediation;
• assignment to and completion of at least ten (10) mediation sessions during each ensuing two-year period as a condition of ongoing panel membership.

Arbitration Panel

In addition to having personal and professional recommendations, threshold requirements for joining the WAMS arbitration panel include:

• adherence to the highest standards of ethical conduct as evidenced by the applicant’s legal career and other aspects of personal and professional life;
• acceptance of the published WAMS Standards of Neutrality and Professional Responsibility;
• review of training materials provided by WAMS to provide specific guidance in the areas of administrative coordination, hearing management, decision drafting and arbitration file documentation;
• commitment to stay current with principles, statutes and case law relevant to the arbitrator’s field of practice. If a case requires specialized knowledge beyond the arbitrator’s competence, the arbitrator will decline the appointment.