Mediation and ADR
Impartiality
Acting without favoritism, bias or prejudice toward any participant. It is one of the core principles of mediation, with self-determination and confidentiality.[1]
In more detail
Maryland's standards require a mediator to decline or withdraw if they can't act impartially, and to avoid statements, gifts or conduct that might reasonably raise a question about it.[1] Virginia's standards define it as being free of favoritism or bias in what the mediator says, does or appears to do.[2]
Varies by state
Each state's mediator standards define impartiality in their own words; the core idea is the same. Find your state’s rules.
Related terms
- NeutralAn impartial person with no stake in the outcome who helps the parties resolve a dispute.
- Conflict of interestAny relationship or situation, past or present, whether personal, professional or financial, that could sway a mediator's neutrality or make it look compromised.
- Self-determinationThe parties' right to make voluntary, uncoerced and informed decisions in mediation, including whether to settle and on what terms.
- Co-mediationMediation conducted by two or more mediators working together in the same case.
Read next on MediationList
Sources
The official documents this definition is based on, with the date we last read each one. Definitions are in our own words.
General information, not legal advice. MediationList is not a law firm. Spotted an error? Tell us.
Cite this page
MediationList. (2026, October 28). Impartiality: Definition. https://mediationlist.com/glossary/impartiality/
APA 7th ed. A retrieval date is included only for pages whose content changes, such as maps, data and tools.