Communications 4

Prepare a 1,400- to 1,700-word paper on the state of mediator qualification law in Louisiana.

• What is your opinion in the confidentiality versus good-faith requirement controversy as it applies to Louisiana?
• Research the state of mediator qualification in Louisiana.
• Is there one statute or regulation that covers all mediators, or are different specialties required to meet different qualification standards? Does Louisiana describe explicit requirements or defer to a professional organization to set standards? Do court mediators have one set of qualifications and private mediators have another?
• Choose one kind of mediator qualification law within Lousisiana and look at the standards in detail. Does the law require a particular professional background; for example, do the mediators have to be lawyers, therapists, or social workers? What is the nature and scope of any required mediation-specific training or education? Are prospective mediators required to apprentice a mentor and, if so, for how long? Are qualified mediators required to fulfill mediation-specific continuing education requirements? If so, what are the requirements?

Reference at least three peer-reviewed outside sources.