There are more than 8,000 arbitrators and mediators in the United States. The Association of Diverse Arbitrators and Mediators is a Diversity Supplier Initiative providing single access point to some of the most qualified diverse arbitrators and mediators in the nation. It is the first nationwide network of its kind.
The ABA found that “people of color are underrepresented in the legal profession compared to their presence in the U.S. population. Although over the last decade, the number of Hispanic, Asian American and mix-race lawyers grew, Hispanic attorneys are still underrepresented as lawyers compared with their share of the population. Asian attorneys and mixed-race lawyers’ representation in the legal profession are very close to their share of the U.S. population.” Minorities and diverse attorneys are underrepresented in this nation. Here’s a look at the ABA’s 2022 findings by Race and Ethnicity.
Source: AmericanBar.org, ABA Profile of the Legal Profession, 2022, National Lawyer Population Survey. https://www.abalegalprofile.com/index.html
Although no study has been conducted in the field of arbitration or mediation, if you ask anyone practicing law, they will certainly admit the numbers are worse when it comes to finding diverse neutrals.
Simply put, diverse neutrals are hard to find. Plaintiffs and litigants have racial, ethnic and other diverse backgrounds. They need to feel comfortable that the mediator/arbitrator hearing their dispute is not judging them for their accent, dress, origin or background. About 95% or better of cases eventually settle. Although some companies are demanding diversity among their outside counsel, few are making the same demands for neutrals that will ultimately be hired to settle 95% of their claims.
Bringing together diverse arbitrators and mediators with diverse litigants in one network will foster a sense of community and an environment of support and respect that will facilitate understanding and resolution. The Association of Diverse Arbitrators and Mediators (ADAAM.org) can improve outcomes and the quality of service by bringing together diverse perspectives and experiences to address and resolve legal issues.
Our team of diverse arbitrators and mediators brings a wide variety of people with different experiences, skills, perspectives, and insights together to solve problems and improve outcomes. Diversity in the workplace increases innovation, creativity and strategic thinking. Teams of people from different backgrounds can draw upon a wider range of resources, knowledge and unique experiences to spark new ideas.
The Association of Diverse Arbitrators and Mediators provides a single access point to some of the most qualified arbitrators and mediators in the country. As a nationwide network, ADAAM serves as a resource and connects diverse arbitrators and mediators to businesses and organizations that foster diversity and supplier initiatives.
Our association of experienced dispute resolution professionals includes members with the technical skills and specialized knowledge that take years to gain. Our team of diverse neutrals has extensive legal industry experience that includes board certifications, involvement in numerous professional memberships, extensive litigation practice, and awards and honors for strong legal ability and high ethical standards.
With our nation’s growing diversity, ADAAM.org is committed to developing business opportunities within the community of Diverse Business Enterprises (DBEs). Our platform serves to ensure that our Association provides opportunities to diverse members of the industry.
Interested in becoming a member of ADAAM? Please review our membership options and apply at the link below. Interested Arbitrators and Mediators must submit an application and go through a vetting process. Some of our requirements include 1) being certified in the jurisdiction you wish to arbitrate or mediate; 2) undergo a background and reference check to our satisfaction; 3) and have sufficient experience in dispute resolution. ADAAM.org, LLC reserves the absolute and exclusive right to select Arbitrators and Mediators for membership in its network.
If your organization is interested in diversity and inclusion of professionals providing legal services, please consider using our network of diverse mediators and arbitrators. For more information, Contact Us. Please help us make an impact and consider using one of our members for your next arbitration or mediation. Help us ensure that clients and litigants have an ability to identify and access a diverse field of neutrals.
