Mediation and ADR
Uniform Mediation Act (UMA)
Also called UMA
A model law that states can adopt, which makes mediation communications privileged, limits what mediators may report to courts and requires mediators to disclose conflicts.[1]
In more detail
Washington enacted it in 2005, effective in 2006.[1] It lets parties bring a lawyer or other chosen person to mediation and says it should be applied with an eye to uniformity among the states that enact it.[1] States that haven't adopted it have their own mediation confidentiality laws, such as Florida's Mediation Confidentiality and Privilege Act.[2]
Varies by state
Not every state has enacted the UMA, and enacted versions can differ; check your state's law. Find your state’s rules.
Related terms
- Mediation privilegeA legal right to refuse to disclose, and to stop others from disclosing, mediation communications in a later court or other proceeding.
- Mediation communicationAny statement, spoken or written, or conduct meant as a statement, made during a mediation or to arrange, continue or reconvene one or hire a mediator.
- ConfidentialityThe rule that what is said in mediation generally stays private.
- Mediator reportWhat a mediator may tell the court or agency about a mediation.
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Sources
The official documents this definition is based on, with the date we last read each one. Definitions are in our own words.
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MediationList. (2026, October 28). Uniform Mediation Act: Definition. https://mediationlist.com/glossary/uniform-mediation-act/
APA 7th ed. A retrieval date is included only for pages whose content changes, such as maps, data and tools.