How can I obtain a letter of reference from a peer or colleague who is familiar with my work as a mediator when all my mediations have been done privately?
While the Society strongly prefers letters of reference from referees who have observed the applicant mediating, this is not an absolute requirement. The primary requirement is that the references be from referees whose knowledge of the applicant is such that they are able to provide credible, detailed and relevant examples of the applicant’s mediation practice. References from peers or supervisors who have an arm’s length knowledge of the applicant’s mediation work or the results of that work may be acceptable. For example, the Society would likely accept a letter of reference from a lawyer who has not attended any of the applicant’s mediation sessions if the lawyer can provide detailed feedback from clients who have done so.
