DEATH OF A MEDIATOR (inspired by actual and true events)

I come to you with a heavy heart. I am gravely saddened for our community of professional neutrals because we have lost yet another dedicated certified mediator. Although Albert D. Results, Esq. (“A.D.R”), principal of the 15 year old firm, Sensible Mediation, Inc. is very much alive, he has shut down his Sensible Mediation, Inc. forever, after a 24-month battle against declining revenues.  The closing of Sensible Mediation, Inc. not only effects its principle, who has decided not to recertify and leave Florida, but also its 4 person staff, who are now out of work.

A.D.R  was a well-established litigator (over 25 years) who decided to leave the practice of law and answer, what became the feeling of a higher calling, being a certified mediator.  It was not solely a profession, a side business, or just another way to supplement income like most attorneys turned mediator. It became a way to impact those who participated in the process of mediation who seeking legal justice.  He dedicated himself to conflict resolution and practicing “mindfulness” when mediating.

The circumstances that lead to the death of Sensible Mediation, Inc. is not shocking, just sad and disturbing to know that many dedicated mediators are at risk to the same fate.  Some can speculate that it was today’s unstable economy or the inability to adapt to the millennial business climate.  No. being more aware than that, A.D.R knew it was cronyism and unethical local mediator practices that Sensible Mediation, Inc. refused to bend to.  The large firm cronyism is keeping only certain mediators busy due to personal relationships, while large insurance companies will only select mediators they know serve their interest by conducting mediation how they want.  So, remaining true to its ethics, maintaining principles of mediation and practicing more mindfulness cost Sensible Mediation, Inc. its life.

So farewell Sensible Mediation, Inc. and its principle. You fought the good fight and maintain true to what the promise of mediation is. And although your certified mediator life has come to its end, carry on and good luck with your other endeavors.

 

This is based on real events. The names have been changed to keep the privacy of the principle and those involved.

A.D.R. has given me permission to write this piece and have asked advocates of ADR and mediators who have taken the time to read this, to stand firm and maintain the dignity of the profession by not letting “Large Firm X” or “BIG Company” control how the profession evolves and how mediation is conducted.