ABA Creates Committee on Mediator Ethical Guidance

The American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution has announced the establishment of a Committee on Mediator Ethical Guidance. Mediators may submit ethical issues related to the practice of mediation, which will provide advisory responses. This development bears watching for two reasons. First of all, some of the issues may relate to those faced by ombuds. So this may become an important resource. Secondly, this arrangement echoes the relationship between the ABA and ombuds. In other words: What business does the ABA have, telling mediators (who are not practicing law) what standards they should follow? (ABA Section on Dispute Resolution, Committee on Mediator Ethical Guidance.)