Foreclosure Mediation Unit Pilot Program

Information for Mediators

 
Overview
Foreclosure mediators who serve on the mediation panel for the Foreclosure Mediation Unit (“FMU”) will, as requested, provide impartial mediation services for disputes related to mortgages and foreclosures.
 
In addition, the mediators will perform related administrative functions, such as initial telephonic conferences and preparing correspondence, reports, agreements or other program documents. The mediators will also be required to provide information to attorneys and parties regarding the mediation process and perform other related duties as assigned. Qualified law students will be allowed to observe and/or participate in the program and mediators are expected to provide appropriate mentoring and training.
 
Qualifications and Requirements
Mediators who serve on the mediation panel should possess superior communication, negotiation, problem-solving, analytical and conflict resolution skills. They must have the ability to maintain confidences, exercise sound judgment and discretion, work collaboratively with others and foster effective working relationships with attorneys, clients, courts, judicial staff, community agencies and the general public. In addition to a high level of competence, crucial qualities for success as a foreclosure mediator include neutrality, honesty, creativity and patience.
 
The minimum requirements for participation as a FMU mediation panel member shall be: (1) Active member in good standing of the State Bar of Arizona, with at least five years of practice; (2) Successful completion of a forty (40) hour basic mediation skills class; (3) At least two years of experience mediating disputes with sound knowledge the mediation process, ethics, applicable state laws and standards of practice; (4) Service as primary mediator in at least twenty-five mediations; (5) Completion of Foreclosure Mediation Unit specific training and willingness to complete additional training as recommended; and (6) Such other requirements as set forth in Local Bankruptcy Court Rule §9072-6.
 
Due to the complex subject matter of foreclosure mediation, preferred qualifications include: (1) Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, real estate, or a related field; (2) Completion of substantial additional alternative dispute resolution training; (3) Extensive experience in business, finance, real estate, banking, foreclosure or a related field of law; (4) Significant experience mediating commercial disputes; and (5) Such other relevant qualifications as determined by the FMU.
 
Application Process
To apply for participation on the FMU mediation panel, candidates should submit a cover letter, which should explain their interest in serving as a mediator, resume, list of relevant alternative dispute resolution training, record of your prior mediation experience, and the names and contact information for three professional references to foreclosuremediationunit@asu.edu.
 

Contact Information: