Does a mediator have to be a lawyer?
General Mediation
Answer
No, not universally. Mediators come from legal, business, mental-health, accounting, engineering, human-resources, and other professional backgrounds. Lawyers and retired judges are common in litigated commercial matters, but legal training is not a nationwide requirement.
Reviewed by Wayne Lazarus on September 17, 2026.
Reviewed by Wayne H. Lazarus, attorney with more than 50 years’ experience, member of the State Bar of Georgia and The Florida Bar, and of Alternative Dispute Resolution sections.
This information is educational and is not legal advice.