Nevertheless, most people who offer mediation services have received some training. Most courts that have court-annexed mediation programs require training of the people who wish to be members of the mediation panel and also offer the training to others who wish to receive it. In addition, many private, continuing legal education providers offer mediation programs. Court training usually consists of a multi-day program comprised of lectures and demonstrations. Role-playing sessions during training allow students to play the mediator in a mock case using the skills they have learned.
Compensation varies depending on the context in which the mediation arises.
In the case of private mediation, the compensation is a function of the agreement between the parties and the mediator. Typically, private mediators offer their services at an agreed daily rate, which can be rather substantial. Private mediators are able to ask for and receive more compensation because the litigants realize the potential value of their services. For example, most privately mediated disputes have much smaller amounts in controversy than potential future legal fees that would result if a case went to litigation. Reducing the Burden on the System Because mediation is so effective, it offers tremendous cost savings and other benefits to the parties involved.