Top 11 Adjudicator Certifications

Certifications are an important way for adjudicators to demonstrate their competence and qualifications in the job market. They provide potential employers with assurance that the adjudicator has the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to effectively handle legal matters. Certifications also show that the adjudicator is committed to staying up-to-date on relevant laws and procedures, which is essential for success in this field. Additionally, certifications can help adjudicators stand out from other applicants and make them more attractive to employers.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Adjudicators and explains how they can help to enhance an adjudicator's career.

What are Adjudicator Certifications?

Adjudicator certification is a way to recognize individuals who have achieved a certain level of knowledge and experience in the field of dispute resolution. It is designed to provide assurance that the person has met certain standards and has demonstrated an understanding of dispute resolution theory and practice. Adjudicator certification can help ensure that disputes are resolved more quickly, efficiently, and effectively by providing assurance that qualified professionals are available to handle them. This can also help reduce costs associated with resolving disputes as well as increase public confidence in the process. By having certified adjudicators, companies, organizations, or governments can be sure that they are receiving quality service from qualified professionals. Additionally, adjudicator certification can help demonstrate a commitment to professional development and provide additional incentive for those pursuing a career in dispute resolution.

Pro Tip: When considering adjudicator certification, be sure to research the organization offering the certification to ensure it is reputable and will provide you with the credentials necessary to work as an adjudicator in your chosen field.

Related: What does an Adjudicator do?

Top 11 Adjudicator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Adjudicators today.

1. American Arbitration Association (AAA) Certified Adjudicator

The American Arbitration Association (AAA) Certified Adjudicator is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated competence in the field of arbitration and mediation. This certification is designed to ensure that those who serve as arbitrators or mediators have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively handle disputes.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to become certified by the AAA. The process involves taking an online course, passing an exam, and completing a practicum. The cost for the program varies depending on the type of certification desired, but typically ranges from $1,500-$2,500.

To get certified by the AAA, applicants must first complete an online course in arbitration or mediation. This course covers topics such as dispute resolution techniques, negotiation strategies, case management principles, and legal concepts related to arbitration and mediation. After completing the course, applicants must pass a written examination. Upon passing this exam, they must then complete a practicum which includes real-life simulations of dispute resolution scenarios. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their certification from the AAA.

2. Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) Accredited Adjudicator

The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) Accredited Adjudicator is a professional qualification that enables individuals to become accredited as an adjudicator in the UK. The CIArb Accredited Adjudicator is a recognised qualification for those wishing to work in the field of dispute resolution and provides a pathway to becoming an accredited arbitrator or mediator.

It takes approximately 12 months to complete the CIArb Accredited Adjudicator course, which consists of three modules: Introduction to Dispute Resolution, Principles and Practice of Adjudication and Advanced Practice of Adjudication. Each module includes lectures, tutorials, workshops and assessments. To qualify as an accredited adjudicator, candidates must pass all three modules and attend at least one face-to-face training session.

To get the CIArb Accredited Adjudicator qualification, you need to be a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb). You can join by completing an application form on their website or by contacting them directly. Once you have joined CIArb, you can register for the course online or contact them directly for more information about how to enrol.

The cost of obtaining the CIArb Accredited Adjudicator qualification varies depending on whether you are a student or professional member of CIArb. For students, it costs £1,100 plus VAT; for professionals it costs £2,200 plus VAT.

3. National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals Certified Adjudicator

The National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals (NADN) Certified Adjudicator program is a professional certification program for dispute resolution professionals. It is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of skill and expertise in the practice of resolving disputes through mediation, arbitration, or other forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR).

To become a NADN Certified Adjudicator, individuals must meet certain criteria including: having at least five years of experience in ADR; being certified as an arbitrator, mediator, or other ADR practitioner by an approved organization; and demonstrating significant experience in the field. Additionally, applicants must complete an online application and submit letters of recommendation from peers and colleagues attesting to their qualifications.

The process typically takes anywhere from three to six months to complete. Once all requirements have been met, applicants will receive their NADN Certified Adjudicator designation.

The cost for the NADN Certified Adjudicator program varies depending on the organization providing the certification. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1,000 to apply for this certification.

4. International Mediation Institute (IMI) Certified Adjudicator

The International Mediation Institute (IMI) Certified Adjudicator is a professional certification program for practitioners of commercial and civil dispute resolution. It is designed to recognize and promote the highest standards of practice in adjudication, while also providing an opportunity for practitioners to demonstrate their commitment to professional excellence.

The IMI Certified Adjudicator program consists of two components: a comprehensive online training program and an assessment. The online training program covers topics such as the fundamentals of adjudication, best practices, and ethical considerations. Upon successful completion of the course, participants must then take an assessment that tests their knowledge and understanding of the material covered in the course.

The entire process typically takes between 4-6 weeks to complete. To get started, interested parties should first register with IMI by completing an application form on the IMI website. Once registered, they will be provided with access to the online training program. After successfully completing the course, participants must then take and pass the assessment in order to become certified as an IMI Certified Adjudicator.

The cost for becoming an IMI Certified Adjudicator is $795 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees. This fee includes access to all materials required for certification, including unlimited access to the online training program and one attempt at passing the assessment.

5. National Arbitration Forum (NAF) Certified Adjudicator

National Arbitration Forum (NAF) Certified Adjudicator is a program that provides training and certification for individuals interested in becoming arbitrators. The NAF Certified Adjudicator Program is designed to ensure that all adjudicators have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively handle arbitration cases.

The NAF Certified Adjudicator Program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course covers topics such as legal principles, arbitration procedures, and dispute resolution techniques. The in-person exam tests the knowledge gained from the online course as well as any additional knowledge or experience the applicant may have.

It typically takes about three months to complete the NAF Certified Adjudicator Program. Applicants must complete the online course within six weeks of registering for the program, and they must pass the in-person exam within three months of completing the online course.

To get certified, applicants must submit an application form, pay a fee of $395 USD, and successfully complete both parts of the program.

The cost for taking part in this program is $395 USD.

6. American Bar Association (ABA) Approved Mediator and Adjudicator

The American Bar Association (ABA) Approved Mediator and Adjudicator is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have met the ABA's standards for mediator and adjudicator qualifications. This program is designed to ensure that those who serve as mediators and adjudicators in legal disputes are qualified, competent, and ethical.

To become an ABA-approved mediator or adjudicator, an individual must complete a minimum of 40 hours of approved training in dispute resolution techniques, including mediation and arbitration. The training must be provided by an ABA-approved provider and must include both classroom instruction and practical experience. Individuals must also pass a written exam to demonstrate their knowledge of dispute resolution principles.

It typically takes several weeks or months to complete the required training and pass the exam. The cost of the training varies depending on the provider, but it can range from $500 to $2,000 or more.

Once an individual has completed the training and passed the exam, they can apply for ABA approval through the ABA Dispute Resolution Section website. The application fee is $100 for attorneys and $50 for non-attorneys. After submitting their application, individuals will receive confirmation within two weeks if they have been approved as an ABA-approved mediator or adjudicator.

7. International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Certified Adjudicator

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Certified Adjudicator is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become qualified adjudicators in international commercial disputes. An ICC Certified Adjudicator is an independent, impartial, and neutral decision-maker who has been trained and certified by the ICC to resolve international commercial disputes through arbitration or other dispute resolution mechanisms.

It typically takes around six months to complete the certification process. To become an ICC Certified Adjudicator, applicants must first complete an online application form and submit it to the ICC for consideration. Once accepted into the program, applicants must then attend a two-week training course on international arbitration and dispute resolution at an accredited institution or organization. Upon successful completion of this course, applicants must then pass a written examination administered by the ICC before they can be certified as an ICC Certified Adjudicator.

The cost of becoming an ICC Certified Adjudicator varies depending on the type of training course taken and any additional fees associated with taking the exam. Generally speaking, it costs between $2,000-$5,000 USD to become certified as an ICC Certified Adjudicator.

8. Society of Construction Law (SCL) Registered Adjudicator

The Society of Construction Law (SCL) Registered Adjudicator is a professional accreditation program designed to recognize the expertise of construction lawyers and other professionals in the field. It is an independent, voluntary system that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in construction law.

To become an SCL Registered Adjudicator, applicants must meet certain criteria, including having at least five years’ legal practice experience in the field of construction law and having been involved in at least two adjudications as either an adjudicator or a party representative. Applicants must also demonstrate their understanding of the principles and processes of adjudication through a written assessment.

The application process for becoming an SCL Registered Adjudicator takes approximately three months from start to finish. In order to apply, applicants must first complete an online application form which includes providing information about their professional qualifications, experience and background. The application fee is £150 plus VAT. Once the application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by the SCL Professional Accreditation Committee who will make a decision on whether or not to grant accreditation.

Once accreditation has been granted, the applicant will be issued with an SCL Registered Adjudicator Certificate which they can use to demonstrate their expertise in this specialist area of construction law. This certificate is valid for three years after which time it can be renewed by completing a renewal form and paying a renewal fee of £100 plus VAT.

9. Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) Certified Adjudicator

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) Certified Adjudicator is a professional designation awarded to individuals who have completed a rigorous training program and passed an examination administered by FINRA. This certification is designed for those who are interested in becoming qualified arbitrators or mediators in the financial services industry.

To become a FINRA Certified Adjudicator, applicants must first complete an online course that covers topics such as dispute resolution, arbitration, mediation, and the FINRA Code of Arbitration Procedure. After completing the online course, applicants must pass a two-hour exam with a score of 70% or higher. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is administered at various testing centers around the country.

The cost of the FINRA Certified Adjudicator program varies depending on whether you take the online course or attend an in-person seminar. The online course costs $495, while attending an in-person seminar will cost $795. Both courses include access to study materials and practice tests to help prepare for the exam.

It typically takes about six weeks from registration to completion of the program, including taking and passing the exam. After successfully completing all requirements, individuals will receive their FINRA Certified Adjudicator certificate within four to six weeks after passing their examination.

10. Institute for Conflict Management (ICM) Accredited Adjudicator

The Institute for Conflict Management (ICM) Accredited Adjudicator is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence in the field of conflict resolution. It is awarded to those who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the practice of dispute resolution, including mediation, arbitration, and other forms of alternative dispute resolution.

To become an ICM Accredited Adjudicator, applicants must complete an intensive training program and pass a comprehensive examination. The program includes both classroom instruction and practical experience in the field. It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the training program and earn the designation.

In order to be eligible for the ICM Accredited Adjudicator program, applicants must have at least five years of experience in dispute resolution or related fields, such as law or human resources management. They must also demonstrate a commitment to professional ethics and standards of practice. Applicants should also possess strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and an understanding of conflict dynamics.

The cost of becoming an ICM Accredited Adjudicator varies depending on the specific training program chosen by the applicant. Generally speaking, however, it can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars.

Once accredited, ICM Accredited Adjudicators are expected to maintain their certification by participating in continuing education courses and attending conferences related to dispute resolution or related fields on a regular basis.

11. American Health Lawyers Association (AHLA) Approved Mediator and Adjudicator

The American Health Lawyers Association (AHLA) Approved Mediator and Adjudicator is a program that provides legal professionals with the opportunity to become certified as a mediator or adjudicator in health law disputes. The program is designed to provide mediation and arbitration services for health care disputes, including those involving medical malpractice, managed care contracts, insurance coverage, and other related matters.

The AHLA Approved Mediator and Adjudicator program requires applicants to have at least five years of experience in health law practice or dispute resolution. Applicants must also complete the AHLA's online training course on mediation and adjudication of health law disputes. The course covers topics such as ethical considerations, negotiation strategies, dispute resolution techniques, and more.

It typically takes about six weeks to complete the application process and receive certification as an AHLA Approved Mediator or Adjudicator. The cost of the program is $1,500 for AHLA members and $2,000 for non-members.

To apply for the AHLA Approved Mediator and Adjudicator program, applicants must submit an online application form along with supporting documentation such as professional references, resumes/CVs, transcripts from any relevant courses taken, proof of continuing education credits earned within the past two years related to dispute resolution or health law practice.

Do You Really Need a Adjudicator Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need an adjudicator certificate. An adjudicator certificate is a document that certifies that a person has been trained and certified as a professional adjudicator. This certification is often required for certain types of dispute resolution processes, such as arbitration or mediation.

However, many people choose to become certified adjudicators even though it is not necessarily required by law. Being certified can provide the adjudicator with more credibility in the eyes of the parties involved in the dispute and can also provide evidence of their professional qualifications and experience. In addition, having an adjudicator certificate may make it easier to find work as an arbitrator or mediator.

In some cases, becoming certified may be necessary if you wish to practice in certain jurisdictions, as some states have specific requirements for those who are involved in dispute resolution proceedings. Additionally, some organizations require the use of certified adjudicators in order to ensure that their disputes are handled properly and fairly.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an adjudicator certificate depends on your particular situation and what type of dispute resolution process you are engaging in. It is always best to check with the relevant authority before making any decisions about obtaining certification.

Related: Adjudicator Resume Examples

FAQs About Adjudicator Certifications

Q1. What is an Adjudicator Certification?

A1. An Adjudicator Certification is a professional qualification that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and expertise in the field of dispute resolution, mediation and arbitration. It is awarded by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) after successful completion of their training programme.

Q2. How do I become an Adjudicator?

A2. To become an Adjudicator you must first complete the CIArb training course and then pass their assessment process which includes written exams and practical assessments. Once certified, you will be eligible to join their panel of approved Adjudicators.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming an Adjudicator?

A3. Becoming an Adjudicator provides a number of benefits such as increased job security, increased earning potential, improved professional status and recognition, enhanced reputation in the field of dispute resolution, access to exclusive resources from CIArb and more opportunities to further your career in this area.

Q4. Is there any ongoing training or development required for adjudicators?

A4: Yes, CIArb requires all adjudicators to keep up with industry developments by attending seminars, conferences and other events on a regular basis as well as completing any relevant online courses or reading materials that may be provided by CIArb or other organisations within the field of dispute resolution and arbitration.

Q5: How long does it take to become an adjudicator?

A5: The length of time it takes to become an adjudicator depends on how quickly you can complete the necessary training program and assessment process but typically it takes between 4-6 months from start to finish