Qualification Standards of Neutrals
Qualifications of Mediators
An applicant must possess all of the following minimum qualifications at the time of submission of the application in order to join the Bureau of Legal Affairs -Alternative Dispute Resolution Services' (BLAADRS) Roster of Accredited Mediators:
- Have finished a bachelor's degree in any of the following fields: engineering, psychology, chemistry. education. medicine, business and law;
- At least 37 years old and seven (7) years of experience in mediating cases or ten (10) years of legal practice involving intellectual property; provided that the IPOPHL may consider an applicant who is deficient as regards the age and/or experience requirement if he or she is able to demonstrate or prove extraordinary expertise and professional background;
- With good moral character;
- Trustworthy and able to handle confidential information;
- Track record of providing thoughtful and proper options to the parties; and
- Proficient in oral and written communication.
Qualification of Arbitrators
An applicant must possess all of the following minimum qualifications at the time of submission of the application:
- Have finished a bachelor's or post-graduate degree in any of the following fields: engineering, psychology, chemistry, education, medicine, business and law;
- At least seven (7) years of experience in arbitration of cases or ten (10) years of legal practice involving intellectual property; provided that the IPOPHL may consider an applicant who is deficient as regards the experience requirement if he or she is able to demonstrate or prove
- extraordinary expertise and professional background;
- With good moral character;
- Trustworthy and able to handle confidential information; and
- Proficient in oral and written communication.
As to paragraphs (iii) and (iv), this shall be a continuing requirement for accreditation and a qualification required for the renewal of accreditation.