A mediator shall recognize that mediation is based on the principle of self-determination by the parties. A mediator shall conduct the mediation in an impartial manner.
Impartiality means freedom from favoritism or bias in word, action or appearance.
A mediator shall disclose all actual and potential conflicts of interest reasonably known to the mediator. After disclosure, the mediator shall decline to mediate unless all parties choose to retain the mediator. The need to protect against conflicts of interest also governs conduct that occurs during and after the mediation. A mediator shall maintain professional competency in mediation skills and, where the mediator lacks the skills or necessary subject knowledge for a particular case, shall decline to serve or shall withdraw from serving. The standard of confidentiality shall apply to all such communication occurring before, during and following the mediation.