What are the requirements to become a Florida Supreme Court certified mediator?

Florida has a formal mediator certification system governed by the Florida Rules for Certified and Court-Appointed Mediators. The state recognizes several certification areas, including County Court, Family, Circuit Civil, Dependency, and Appellate mediation. Each certification type has its own requirements. County Court certification generally requires approved mediation training, observed mediations, and a written examination. Family, Circuit Civil, and Dependency certifications usually require more extensive training and observation requirements. Applicants must also demonstrate good moral character and submit a completed application with the Florida Dispute Resolution Center, along with the required fee. To maintain certification, Florida Supreme Court certified mediators must complete continuing mediator education during each reporting period. This includes required ethics education and other approved continuing education hours. Florida is different from many other states because it has a more formal statewide mediator certification structure for court-connected mediation.