As a woman trial lawyer, as well as a mediator, I know, first-hand, how underutiltized the women mediators are in our area. Many women train to be mediators, and yet, when it comes time for the parties to agree to a mediator, the parties often don't even suggest a woman mediator. The field is overwhelmingly dominated by men, especially in the litigation arena. This is unfortunate, as I do believe women bring special skills to the table when it comes to mediation.
I was most interested in this article, published by the American Bar Association, which made the case for the increased use of women as mediators.
I think there is a misconception that women are too soft to be mediators. But that might actually be a good quality. Mediators are not supposed to act as judge and jury. Mediators are not supposed to act as bullies. Mediators are supposed to be neutral and facilitative.
As a trial lawyer, I try to recommend a woman mediator to my opponent whenever I can. And as a woman mediator, I hope others will do the same and give us women mediators a try.
