The Bar is realising that the involvement of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and mediation – in particular in the civil justice system – has reached a stage where it may impact upon the work of a substantial number of barristers. It is already a requirement of the Bar professional practice rules that ADR should be considered in each case and advised upon if appropriate.
Mediation is not yet seen as an integral part of a barrister’s professional practice, but this may change. Currently, much of the progression of mediation within the Bar has involved barristers training in mediation techniques with a view to becoming mediators. And there is talk of the Bar vocation training including an optional ADR module, with some pressing for it to be compulsory.
