Category: Arizona

Expert Chandler AZ Divorce Mediation

Chandler AZ Divorce Mediation

Chandler AZ Divorce Mediation

Mediate Virtually, Online, or In-Person with Dr. Ben Earwicker, J.D., Ph.D.

Conflict Resolution with an Expert Divorce Mediator

Chandler AZ divorce mediation with Dr. Earwicker can save you time and money.

Divorces can be some of the most contentious and painful conflicts many of us will ever experience. Child custody arrangements, division of assets, and other difficult decisions make divorce especially frustrating. You may be dealing with the stress of a long-standing conflict. Or you might face the frustration of impasse and deadlock. Perhaps you and a partner can’t agree on a way forward.

Regardless of the extent of your conflict, divorce mediation can provide a way forward.

First, it’s important to work with a skilled facilitator. Expert mediator Dr. Ben Earwicker can guide you through your conflict to resolution. Second, how effectively you deal with conflict depends on the tools you apply.  Divorce mediation services with our experienced mediator can help break through impasse. Dr. Earwicker can help you resolve your divorce disputes and write a new chapter.

Don’t let conflict take up any more of your time and resources. 

Contact Dr. Earwicker today to discuss virtual, online, remote, and in-person Chandler AZ divorce mediation.

Chandler AZ Divorce Mediation Basics

Chandler AZ divorce mediation with Dr. Earwicker can be an alternative to lengthy, public court battles. A divorce mediator can assist with a settlement agreement on issues like property division, alimony, child support, child custody, and more. In Chandler, couples can then file the divorce settlement agreement (or “separation agreement”) with the court as an uncontested divorce, simplifying the procedures and costs associated with filing for divorce. This is also known as “divorce by consent decree” in AZ. There are various requirements for an uncontested divorce in Chandler AZ, including residency requirements and agreement on substantive issues. Ariz. Rev. Stat. §§ 25-316, 25-317 (2022). 

You can save time and money by first working with a mediator to resolve your disputes and then file an uncontested divorce in Chandler. You’ll need a settlement agreement in order to do this. Arizona also provides easy-to-use forms and information about uncontested divorce on its AZCourtHelp website. Regardless of your divorce filing status in Arizona, mediation can also help with other, ongoing disputes, even after the divorce is final. 

For more information on uncontested divorce and Chandler AZ divorce mediation, visit DivorceNet’s page on divorce in Arizona.

Divorce mediation offers a number of advantages, including:

  • lower cost,
  • freedom to make informed decisions,
  • control, and
  • communication.

You and your spouse control the outcome of divorce mediation, not the courts.

For divorce mediation to be successful, it’s important that both spouses engage in good faith. Mediation will likely not be successful if one spouse is more interested in harming the other spouse than resolving disputes over property or child custody arrangements. If both spouses engage in good faith, though, mediation can save significant time and money for both spouses. 

Dr. Earwicker's Mediation Services

Meet the Experts

Dr. Ben Earwicker, M.Int.St., J.D., Ph.D. & Joshua Bruce Holmstead, Esq. provide expert mediation & consulting to individuals, couples, businesses & organizations, drawing on their decades of experience with conflict resolution, mediation, employment law, education, and more. They have successfully mediated and adjudicated thousands of disputes through VirNet Virtual Mediation’s national private practice and administration of a state-wide mediation and law enforcement agency, the Idaho Human Rights Commission.

Why Mediate with Dr. Earwicker & Attorney Holmstead?

Ben & Josh’s empathetic approach to conflict resolution ensures the best potential for reaching agreement and discovering a way through conflict. They know how to navigate complex, technical, and emotionally-charged disputes in almost any context, from employment and labor disputes to family and divorce conflicts to contracts and corporate negotiations. Ben & Josh have helped many parties reach mutually-acceptable outcomes through his expert mediation and dispute resolution services.

Contact Dr. Earwicker & Attorney Holmstead today, and lean on their expertise to help resolve your conflict.

Virtual, Online, and In-Person Chandler AZ Divorce Mediation.

Child Custody Battles. Division of Property. Asset ownership and control. Divorce mediation services can be used to resolve each of these conflicts, and more. Using virtual or in-person mediation,  Dr. Earwicker guides the parties through a process of negotiation that can result in a solution created by and for the parties themselves. Divorce mediation requires a willingness to engage and an openness to whatever solutions emerge. And as mediation.com notes, “The mediator acts as a third party, with the aim of improving communication between the disagreeing parties in order to find a suitable means of settling the dispute.” In this way, Dr. Earwicker brings a fresh perspective and the tools to make that happen. Whether you prefer virtual or in-person mediation, Dr. Earwicker can provide you with the expert divorce mediation services you need to resolve your dispute. Conflict resolution is just a click or call away.

The Goal of Divorce Mediation

You’ve already made the difficult and painful decision to pursue a divorce. You want to avoid a nasty, public court battle. You also know you need a skilled facilitator to help guide you through the conflict resolution process. The issue, then, is figuring out exactly how to work through the conflict and come out better on the other side. Just like visiting a physician for physical ailments, it’s best to seek out a professional online mediator to help resolve your divorce disputes. The end goal? Resolution. Peace of mind. A fresh start. Putting all this behind you and moving on. Dr. Earwicker has the skills and experience you need for a mediated solution to your divorce disputes.

How Much Will Mediation Cost?

Prices include all mediation services, from pre-convening consultation through post-mediation settlement work.

Initial Consultation

Free No Obligation Consultation
  • 30 Minutes
  • Consultation covers the Nature and Extent of Conflict and Goals for all Parties Involved
  • No Obligation to Continue with VirNet Mediation
  • Discuss your Situation in Depth

Hourly Rate

Contact
for Hourly Rates and a Custom Estimate
  • Competitive Rates
  • Total Hours Depend on Nature and Extent of Conflict
  • Billing can be Divided
  • Convenient Scheduling
get a quote

Frequently Asked Questions - Chandler AZ Divorce Mediation

What Does Mediation Look Like?

Mediation is a structured conversation and negotiation. The parties first meet separately with Dr. Earwicker. He explores each person's goals, ideals, and interests in detail. This helps structure mediation conversations. In some divorce mediations, parties opt to provide written position statements prior to the mediation, but that is not required. After meeting with the parties, Dr. Earwicker will schedule the mediation. Typically, the mediation occurs in separate rooms. In some cases (or upon request), Dr. Earwicker will bring the parties together in the same room, either virtually or in-person. In other cases, the parties will not meet face-to-face. Either way, Dr. Earwicker facilitates the discussion and structures the mediation to move the parties toward a negotiated solution. If the parties agree on one or more issues, Dr. Earwicker provides a written settlement agreement for the parties to review and sign. Any mediation agreement is completely voluntary and between the parties to the dispute.

Do I Have to See the Other Party Face-to-Face?

In any mediation, face-to-face contact is not required for a successful mediation. Sometimes it may be beneficial to convene a joint session with the parties all in one room (either virtually or in-person). At other times, depending on the nature of the conflict, face-to-face interaction may not be desirable or warranted. Ultimately, it is up to the parties to decide whether or not to meet face-to-face. This is true whether the mediation services are provided virtually or in-person.

Is Mediation Binding?

Unlike arbitration (where an arbitrator issues a binding decision on the facts of the case), mediation does not result in a binding decision by the mediator. The parties in a mediation are the ones who decide whether to agree on one or more issues. Only they can "bind" the other party through mutual agreement. In this way, a mediation settlement agreement between the parties can be binding as a contract between them. But the mediator's job is not to make a decision. Rather, the mediator facilitates discussions between the parties and helps them arrive at an agreed-upon solution.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Mediate?

Hiring an attorney is not a pre-requisite to mediation. At the same time, you are always welcome to hire an attorney who represents you and your interests in mediation. Keep in mind that the mediator is a neutral party and does not represent either party in the dispute. Thus, you may elect to seek out legal representation if you want someone who can represent you and your interests. Ultimately, though, the success of mediation depends on the parties' willingness to engage in good faith and work toward solutions. Hiring an attorney may or may not further those goals.

How Long Does Mediation Take?

The length of mediation depends on the number and complexity of issues mediated. Some mediations with fairly straightforward issues can be conducted in just a few hours. Most divorce mediations take between 10-15 hours to complete, including pre-mediation work with the parties, the mediation itself, and post-mediation settlement work. Some mediations with more complex issues, more than two parties, or other pending legal matters may take longer. On average, though, planning for 10 hours of mediation is a reasonable estimate.

Should I Just Mediate My Own Dispute to Save Time and Money?

Mediations are like any other professional service: it is in your best interest to contract with a trained and experienced mediator like Dr. Earwicker in order to navigate the complexities of negotiations and conflict resolution. There is great value in hiring a third-party neutral - the mediator - to assist with the process of conflict resolution. A trained, experienced mediator can skillfully navigate complex interpersonal, psychological, and transactional dynamics. A skilled neutral brings a fresh perspective and a dispassionate evaluation of the situation. This third-party view, especially when coupled with expertise and skill, is an invaluable part of the mediation process.

Is Virtual Mediation as Good as In-Person Mediation?

Advances in technology have made it possible to replicate the effectiveness of in-person mediation services in remote, online, and virtual formats. Some people prefer the in-person format because of the ability to be in the same room with the other party or parties to a dispute. This can be true for any type of dispute, from divorce mediations to contract negotiations and employment disputes. However, all of the dynamics of an effective mediation (including separate "caucuses" and joint "conferences") are easily replicated in virtual platforms. Virtual mediation can also save time and money, because there are no transportation costs, and parties in different locations do not have to negotiate the location of an in-person mediation. In short, virtual mediation can be just as effective as in-person mediation services. Live video streaming and other online technologies make virtual mediation just as effective as in-person counterparts.

Expert Mesa Divorce Mediation

Mesa Divorce Mediation

Mesa Divorce Mediation

Mediate Virtually, Online, or In-Person with Dr. Ben Earwicker, J.D., Ph.D.

Conflict Resolution with an Expert Divorce Mediator

Mesa divorce mediation with Dr. Earwicker can save you time and money.

Divorces can be some of the most contentious and painful conflicts many of us will ever experience. Child custody arrangements, division of assets, and other difficult decisions make divorce especially frustrating. You may be dealing with the stress of a long-standing conflict. Or you might face the frustration of impasse and deadlock. Perhaps you and a partner can’t agree on a way forward.

Regardless of the extent of your conflict, divorce mediation can provide a way forward.

First, it’s important to work with a skilled facilitator. Expert mediator Dr. Ben Earwicker can guide you through your conflict to resolution. Second, how effectively you deal with conflict depends on the tools you apply.  Divorce mediation services with our experienced mediator can help break through impasse. Dr. Earwicker can help you resolve your divorce disputes and write a new chapter.

Don’t let conflict take up any more of your time and resources. 

Contact Dr. Earwicker today to discuss virtual, online, remote, and in-person Mesa divorce mediation.

Mesa Divorce Mediation Basics

Mesa divorce mediation with Dr. Earwicker can be an alternative to lengthy, public court battles. A divorce mediator can assist with a settlement agreement on issues like property division, alimony, child support, child custody, and more. In Mesa, couples can then file the divorce settlement agreement (or “separation agreement”) with the court as an uncontested divorce, simplifying the procedures and costs associated with filing for divorce. This is also known as “divorce by consent decree” in AZ. There are various requirements for an uncontested divorce in Mesa, including residency requirements and agreement on substantive issues. Ariz. Rev. Stat. §§ 25-316, 25-317 (2022). 

You can save time and money by first working with a mediator to resolve your disputes and then file an uncontested divorce in Mesa. You’ll need a settlement agreement in order to do this. Arizona also provides easy-to-use forms and information about uncontested divorce on its AZCourtHelp website. Regardless of your divorce filing status in Arizona, mediation can also help with other, ongoing disputes, even after the divorce is final. 

For more information on uncontested divorce and Mesa divorce mediation, visit DivorceNet’s page on divorce in Arizona.

Divorce mediation offers a number of advantages, including:

  • lower cost,
  • freedom to make informed decisions,
  • control, and
  • communication.

You and your spouse control the outcome of divorce mediation, not the courts.

For divorce mediation to be successful, it’s important that both spouses engage in good faith. Mediation will likely not be successful if one spouse is more interested in harming the other spouse than resolving disputes over property or child custody arrangements. If both spouses engage in good faith, though, mediation can save significant time and money for both spouses. 

Dr. Earwicker's Mediation Services

Meet the Experts

Dr. Ben Earwicker, M.Int.St., J.D., Ph.D. & Joshua Bruce Holmstead, Esq. provide expert mediation & consulting to individuals, couples, businesses & organizations, drawing on their decades of experience with conflict resolution, mediation, employment law, education, and more. They have successfully mediated and adjudicated thousands of disputes through VirNet Virtual Mediation’s national private practice and administration of a state-wide mediation and law enforcement agency, the Idaho Human Rights Commission.

Why Mediate with Dr. Earwicker & Attorney Holmstead?

Ben & Josh’s empathetic approach to conflict resolution ensures the best potential for reaching agreement and discovering a way through conflict. They know how to navigate complex, technical, and emotionally-charged disputes in almost any context, from employment and labor disputes to family and divorce conflicts to contracts and corporate negotiations. Ben & Josh have helped many parties reach mutually-acceptable outcomes through his expert mediation and dispute resolution services.

Contact Dr. Earwicker & Attorney Holmstead today, and lean on their expertise to help resolve your conflict.

Virtual, Online, and In-Person Mesa Divorce Mediation.

Child Custody Battles. Division of Property. Asset ownership and control. Divorce mediation services can be used to resolve each of these conflicts, and more. Using virtual or in-person mediation,  Dr. Earwicker guides the parties through a process of negotiation that can result in a solution created by and for the parties themselves. Divorce mediation requires a willingness to engage and an openness to whatever solutions emerge. And as mediation.com notes, “The mediator acts as a third party, with the aim of improving communication between the disagreeing parties in order to find a suitable means of settling the dispute.” In this way, Dr. Earwicker brings a fresh perspective and the tools to make that happen. Whether you prefer virtual or in-person mediation, Dr. Earwicker can provide you with the expert divorce mediation services you need to resolve your dispute. Conflict resolution is just a click or call away.

The Goal of Divorce Mediation

You’ve already made the difficult and painful decision to pursue a divorce. You want to avoid a nasty, public court battle. You also know you need a skilled facilitator to help guide you through the conflict resolution process. The issue, then, is figuring out exactly how to work through the conflict and come out better on the other side. Just like visiting a physician for physical ailments, it’s best to seek out a professional online mediator to help resolve your divorce disputes. The end goal? Resolution. Peace of mind. A fresh start. Putting all this behind you and moving on. Dr. Earwicker has the skills and experience you need for a mediated solution to your divorce disputes.

How Much Will Mediation Cost?

Prices include all mediation services, from pre-convening consultation through post-mediation settlement work.

Initial Consultation

Free No Obligation Consultation
  • 30 Minutes
  • Consultation covers the Nature and Extent of Conflict and Goals for all Parties Involved
  • No Obligation to Continue with VirNet Mediation
  • Discuss your Situation in Depth

Hourly Rate

Contact
for Hourly Rates and a Custom Estimate
  • Competitive Rates
  • Total Hours Depend on Nature and Extent of Conflict
  • Billing can be Divided
  • Convenient Scheduling
get a quote

Frequently Asked Questions - Mesa Divorce Mediation

What Does Mediation Look Like?

Mediation is a structured conversation and negotiation. The parties first meet separately with Dr. Earwicker. He explores each person's goals, ideals, and interests in detail. This helps structure mediation conversations. In some divorce mediations, parties opt to provide written position statements prior to the mediation, but that is not required. After meeting with the parties, Dr. Earwicker will schedule the mediation. Typically, the mediation occurs in separate rooms. In some cases (or upon request), Dr. Earwicker will bring the parties together in the same room, either virtually or in-person. In other cases, the parties will not meet face-to-face. Either way, Dr. Earwicker facilitates the discussion and structures the mediation to move the parties toward a negotiated solution. If the parties agree on one or more issues, Dr. Earwicker provides a written settlement agreement for the parties to review and sign. Any mediation agreement is completely voluntary and between the parties to the dispute.

Do I Have to See the Other Party Face-to-Face?

In any mediation, face-to-face contact is not required for a successful mediation. Sometimes it may be beneficial to convene a joint session with the parties all in one room (either virtually or in-person). At other times, depending on the nature of the conflict, face-to-face interaction may not be desirable or warranted. Ultimately, it is up to the parties to decide whether or not to meet face-to-face. This is true whether the mediation services are provided virtually or in-person.

Is Mediation Binding?

Unlike arbitration (where an arbitrator issues a binding decision on the facts of the case), mediation does not result in a binding decision by the mediator. The parties in a mediation are the ones who decide whether to agree on one or more issues. Only they can "bind" the other party through mutual agreement. In this way, a mediation settlement agreement between the parties can be binding as a contract between them. But the mediator's job is not to make a decision. Rather, the mediator facilitates discussions between the parties and helps them arrive at an agreed-upon solution.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Mediate?

Hiring an attorney is not a pre-requisite to mediation. At the same time, you are always welcome to hire an attorney who represents you and your interests in mediation. Keep in mind that the mediator is a neutral party and does not represent either party in the dispute. Thus, you may elect to seek out legal representation if you want someone who can represent you and your interests. Ultimately, though, the success of mediation depends on the parties' willingness to engage in good faith and work toward solutions. Hiring an attorney may or may not further those goals.

How Long Does Mediation Take?

The length of mediation depends on the number and complexity of issues mediated. Some mediations with fairly straightforward issues can be conducted in just a few hours. Most divorce mediations take between 10-15 hours to complete, including pre-mediation work with the parties, the mediation itself, and post-mediation settlement work. Some mediations with more complex issues, more than two parties, or other pending legal matters may take longer. On average, though, planning for 10 hours of mediation is a reasonable estimate.

Should I Just Mediate My Own Dispute to Save Time and Money?

Mediations are like any other professional service: it is in your best interest to contract with a trained and experienced mediator like Dr. Earwicker in order to navigate the complexities of negotiations and conflict resolution. There is great value in hiring a third-party neutral - the mediator - to assist with the process of conflict resolution. A trained, experienced mediator can skillfully navigate complex interpersonal, psychological, and transactional dynamics. A skilled neutral brings a fresh perspective and a dispassionate evaluation of the situation. This third-party view, especially when coupled with expertise and skill, is an invaluable part of the mediation process.

Is Virtual Mediation as Good as In-Person Mediation?

Advances in technology have made it possible to replicate the effectiveness of in-person mediation services in remote, online, and virtual formats. Some people prefer the in-person format because of the ability to be in the same room with the other party or parties to a dispute. This can be true for any type of dispute, from divorce mediations to contract negotiations and employment disputes. However, all of the dynamics of an effective mediation (including separate "caucuses" and joint "conferences") are easily replicated in virtual platforms. Virtual mediation can also save time and money, because there are no transportation costs, and parties in different locations do not have to negotiate the location of an in-person mediation. In short, virtual mediation can be just as effective as in-person mediation services. Live video streaming and other online technologies make virtual mediation just as effective as in-person counterparts.

Arizona 40-Hour Basic Mediation Training

ARIZONA / 40-HOUR ONLINE MEDIATION EDUCATION

Arizona 40-Hour Mediation Training. Build skills. Explore your pathway.

Develop practical mediation skills through VirNet's flexible, self-paced 40-hour curriculum. Learn neutrality, negotiation, communication, professional ethics, and structured problem-solving across ten progressive modules.

Arizona offers private, community, workplace, and court-connected opportunities, but training and roster expectations differ by program. VirNet provides foundational online education—not automatic approval for any Arizona court or mediator panel.

Before enrolling to satisfy a specific court, volunteer-panel, or employer requirement, ask that organization whether it accepts this course's on-demand format and certificate.

40 hoursFoundational mediation training
10 modulesProgressive learning and practice
OnlineSelf-paced course access
3 optionsChoose your level of instruction

CHOOSE TRAINING THAT FITS YOUR GOAL

What does 40-hour mediation training mean in Arizona?

A completion certificate documents education. The requirements for conducting a mediation, joining a volunteer panel, or accepting court referrals are separate questions.

01 / CORE COMPETENCIES

Build useful mediation skills

Learn to listen for interests, structure dialogue, manage impasse, facilitate negotiation, and develop clear agreements. These skills apply across professional contexts.

02 / VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Check the program's conditions

The Arizona Attorney General's Conflict Resolution Program lists at least 40 hours of basic training and current mediation-facilitation experience for volunteer panel applicants. Admission is not automatic.

03 / COURT REFERRALS

Verify court-specific eligibility

Court-connected work, especially family mediation, can involve local roster approvals, specialized coursework, experience, and other qualifications beyond basic mediation education.

VirNet awards its own course-completion certificate; it does not represent Arizona state licensure, court certification, or authorization to serve on a particular roster.

ARIZONA MEDIATION PATHWAYS

Different settings. A shared foundation in careful practice.

People study mediation for different reasons. These are possible applications of mediation skills—not a list of jobs or credentials guaranteed by a 40-hour course.

01

Workplace and organizational conflict

HR professionals, managers, employment practitioners, and organizational leaders can use mediation techniques to approach disagreement, employee concerns, and difficult decisions more constructively.

Training is educational; employer procedures, confidentiality duties, and applicable law still govern practice.

02

Community and civil-rights mediation

Community programs and public-sector initiatives may engage volunteers or trained neutrals. Arizona's Attorney General describes a volunteer panel addressing civil-rights and other disputes.

Panel admission may require current experience and program approval in addition to basic training.

03

Private civil and business disputes

Mediation skills support discussions involving contracts, business relationships, property, and other civil matters. Professional competence also depends on relevant subject knowledge and responsible practice development.

A general course does not establish expertise in every dispute category or guarantee referrals.

04

Family and court-connected programs

Family mediation and court programs can involve screening, specialized training, experience, and local approval. Some family-mediator rosters specify training well beyond an introductory general course.

Confirm the currently applicable county, court, or roster requirements before choosing a program.

Official starting points: Arizona Attorney General Conflict Resolution Program Arizona Judicial Branch

CHOOSE THE TRAINING EXPERIENCE THAT FITS YOU

One course. Three levels of support.

Every option includes the same 40-hour foundational curriculum. Select the amount of personal feedback and mentoring that aligns with your learning style and goals.

40-HOUR CERTIFICATE PATHWAY

Self-Directed

Full course access with independent study

$775

Complete the 10-module program on your schedule with lessons, assessments, practical simulations, and downloadable course resources. Individualized instructor grading or coaching is not included.

View course & enroll
FIVE PRIVATE COACHING SESSIONS

Private Coaching

Instructor feedback plus five private sessions

$3,275

Everything in Instructor-Guided, plus five one-on-one sessions with Dr. Earwicker to discuss your technique, professional goals, and growth as a mediator.

View course & enroll

Select a training option to review the full course details, current tuition, and enrollment instructions. Any applicable promotion will be displayed on the course enrollment page.

THE EXPERIENCE

The flexibility of online learning, with opportunities to actually mediate.

Moving through this course is more than watching videos. Structured instruction, knowledge checks, realistic simulations, and reflection activities help connect mediation concepts to concrete decisions and conversations.

You can work through the self-paced curriculum wherever you have reliable internet access. If you select guided instruction or coaching, the program also incorporates individualized feedback and mentorship as described in your enrollment tier.

Inside the course

  • Video lessons explaining mediation principles and practical techniques
  • Readings, downloadable outlines, and supplemental learning resources
  • Quizzes and exercises to reinforce each topic
  • Interactive, AI-assisted practice conversations
  • Reflection and application assignments
  • A final evaluation and certificate process after completing required coursework
SKILLS WITH REAL-WORLD APPLICATION

What you will learn to do.

Good mediation is both a thoughtful process and a set of skills that improve with practice. The curriculum develops these capabilities together.

01

Listen beyond positions

Identify emotions, interests, assumptions, and information gaps without prematurely choosing sides.

02

Guide a clear process

Practice introductions, issue identification, negotiation, impasse management, and appropriate closure.

03

Respond to challenging dynamics

Work thoughtfully with frustration, power differences, difficult conversations, and cultural context.

04

Develop practical options

Support brainstorming, evaluation of proposals, and careful agreement development.

05

Build professional habits

Explore ethics, neutrality, preparation, boundaries, and pathways for continuing mediator development.

ARIZONA COURT AND PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Forty hours may be one step—not the entire qualification.

Arizona's mediation opportunities are administered in different settings. A program's specific eligibility rules, acceptance of online instruction, and practical-experience expectations should guide your training decision.

ATTORNEY GENERAL

Conflict Resolution Program volunteers

The Arizona Attorney General says applicants to its volunteer panel must have completed at least 40 hours of basic mediation training and have current experience facilitating mediations. The panel's selection and opportunities vary.

Read the program's requirements →
COURT ROSTERS

Local and family mediation referrals

Some Arizona court-connected rosters require approved family-specific training, additional domestic-violence and child-abuse instruction, experience, insurance, or other qualifications. The exact rules depend on the court and roster.

Find your court and verify eligibility →
PRIVATE PRACTICE

Responsible professional development

Private mediation practice calls for skills, relevant knowledge, screening, ethics, and appropriate professional safeguards. A certificate of course completion alone is not proof of competence for every case type.

Review the preparation checklist →

If a specific organization requires live observation, supervised mediation, an approved provider, or a specialty course, do not assume VirNet's on-demand program replaces those requirements.

NEED HELP CHOOSING?

Let's discuss your training goals.

Whether you are comparing the three course pathways or exploring how the training fits a particular role, we can explain the program and point you toward the questions to ask your local court or credentialing authority.

For a useful response, share your state, intended practice setting, and any specific training requirements you've been given.

General VirNet contact page

Ask about the 40-hour course

Have a question about learning format, guidance options, or state-specific needs? Our training inquiry form is available directly below this section.

For enrollment questions, include your city/state, intended mediation role, and the option you are considering.

Tell us about your goals, questions about the curriculum, or concerns about enrollment. If you are trying to meet a particular training requirement, please share what you have been told by the relevant court or organization.
Save and Resume Later
PRACTICE, REFLECT, IMPROVE

Practice difficult conversations before mediating real ones.

Interactive role-play is a distinctive part of the training. Through realistic, AI-assisted scenarios, you take the mediator's role, practice responding in real time, and reflect on the choices you made.

Scenarios increase in complexity as you advance, including workplace, interpersonal, and multifaceted disputes. They give you opportunities to experiment with questions, reframing, neutrality, and ways of moving a conversation forward.

The technology is a learning tool; it is not a substitute for supervised practice or any state-required live training component.

A PRACTICE-ORIENTED DESIGN

From understanding a technique to trying it.

  1. Study the skills and frameworks.
  2. Apply them in an interactive scenario.
  3. Reflect on what happened and what you would adjust.
  4. Receive additional instructor feedback if your tier includes it.

ARIZONA MEDIATION LAW AND PRACTICE

A solid foundation includes knowing the rules of your setting.

VirNet's course teaches broadly applicable concepts—neutrality, self-determination, process design, communication, negotiation, confidentiality, and ethical judgment. Arizona mediators must also understand the law and rules governing the particular matters they handle.

A.R.S. § 12-2238 addresses the confidentiality of mediation communications and contains specific exceptions, including circumstances involving disclosure requirements and written settlement agreements. Confidentiality is important, but it is not absolute.

For family and court-connected matters, applicable court rules, safety screening, local procedures, and roster criteria can add further responsibilities. A general certificate does not substitute for specialized legal or procedural preparation.

MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR

Learn from the mediator who built the course.

Dr. Benjamin J. Earwicker brings together hands-on mediation, civil rights and organizational dispute resolution, and years of teaching negotiation and alternative dispute resolution. All three enrollment paths share his 40-hour curriculum; the Instructor-Guided and Private Coaching options add individualized instruction.

Explore Dr. Earwicker's professional background
Dr. Ben Earwicker, J.D., Ph.D.
Dr. Earwicker brings experience in conflict resolution, administrative dispute processes, higher education, and mediation training. He has taught negotiation and alternative dispute resolution at the University of Idaho College of Law and developed the curriculum used in VirNet's online 40-hour course. His professional experience informs a practical approach: establish a trustworthy process, understand the dynamics beneath a dispute, give participants meaningful choices, and help them evaluate workable options. For students who want additional instruction, the Instructor-Guided and Private Coaching tiers provide direct access to Dr. Earwicker's individualized feedback.
Teacher courses:
Dr. Ben Earwicker, J.D., Ph.D.

40-Hour Basic Mediation Certification - Instructor-Guided

Achieve your 40-hour basic mediation skills training with instructor review and feedback from Dr. Earwicker twice in each of th...
29
62 Lectures
40 Hours
Dr. Ben Earwicker, J.D., Ph.D.

40-Hour Basic Mediation Certification - Self-Directed

Complete your 40-hour basic mediation skills training online and on-demand, with in-course support and resources you can utiliz...
70
62 Lectures
40 Hours
Dr. Ben Earwicker, J.D., Ph.D.

40-Hour Basic Mediation Certification - Private Coaching

Achieve your 40-hour basic mediation skills training with instructor review and feedback from Dr. Earwicker twice in each of th...
9
62 Lectures
40 Hours
REAL STUDENT EXPERIENCES

Hear from people who completed the training.

Students describe their experiences with the self-paced format, interactive role-play simulations, curriculum progression, and personal feedback. Browse their full comments below to see which aspects of the program mattered most to them.

Testimonials reflect individual experiences and do not guarantee any particular outcome or professional credential.

ARIZONA 40-HOUR TRAINING FAQ

Questions about Arizona mediation training.

These answers help you distinguish foundational learning from program-specific qualification.

Does Arizona have one statewide mediator certification that this course grants?

No. VirNet provides a certificate documenting completion of its own 40-hour curriculum, not an Arizona-issued mediator credential or guaranteed acceptance by a court, government program, or private organization. Verify requirements with the program in which you intend to serve.

Will VirNet's 40-hour course qualify me for the Arizona Attorney General's volunteer panel?

The Attorney General's Conflict Resolution Program identifies at least 40 hours of basic mediation training and current mediation-facilitation experience for applicants. Course completion alone does not guarantee eligibility, panel admission, or program acceptance of the delivery format. Contact the program directly before enrolling for that purpose.

Can I use this training to join a family court mediator roster?

Do not assume so. A particular court or roster may require approved family mediation training, additional specialty instruction, professional experience, or other criteria. Ask the relevant Arizona court for its current rules and whether it accepts this course.

Is the course fully online, and does it include mediation practice?

Yes. VirNet's curriculum is on-demand and includes interactive AI-assisted role-play, reflection, and applied exercises. Those activities are educational and should not be represented as court-supervised live mediations or as satisfying any program's observation or experience requirement without its confirmation.

What does Arizona law say about confidentiality in mediation?

A.R.S. § 12-2238 provides mediation confidentiality protections and identifies exceptions. Anyone practicing in Arizona should review the current statute and the rules applicable to the particular case or program rather than assuming all discussions and records are categorically protected.

Which VirNet enrollment option should I choose?

All three options share the same 40-hour foundational curriculum. Self-Directed is independent study; Instructor-Guided includes individualized feedback; and Private Coaching adds five one-on-one sessions. Choose based on the guidance you want, after separately confirming any Arizona program requirement.

Training and eligibility requirements may change. VirNet is an independent education provider and does not claim endorsement by the Arizona courts or Attorney General's Office.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Answers before you enroll.

Learn what the program includes, what a completion certificate means, and what additional steps might apply in your jurisdiction.

Is the course entirely online?

Yes. The foundational course is offered online and on demand, with video learning materials, assignments, quizzes, and interactive practice exercises. Confirm any synchronous or in-person requirements imposed by your intended court or certification program.

How do the three enrollment options differ?

All three include the complete curriculum. Self-Directed is independent study. Instructor-Guided includes feedback on two assignments in each of ten modules. Private Coaching adds five individual coaching sessions with Dr. Earwicker.

Do I need a legal degree or prior mediation experience?

No particular professional degree is required to enroll in this foundational course. Certain courts or specialized programs may impose additional qualifications for their own rosters or credentials.

Will I earn a certificate?

A certificate of completion is available after successful completion of the program and its requirements. It documents training completion and is not itself a government license, court appointment, or guarantee of eligibility.

Will this qualify me to mediate for courts in my state?

Possibly, but not automatically. Court-connected programs may require approved training providers, specific instructional formats, subject-matter instruction, screening, mentoring, or separate applications. Verify the exact jurisdiction and roster requirements before enrolling for that purpose.

Can I start a private mediation practice after the course?

The course builds foundational skills and introduces professional pathways, but starting a practice also requires careful attention to ethical duties, local rules, business formation, insurance considerations, and the scope of services offered.

How do the interactive role-play exercises work?

Students work through realistic, AI-assisted practice conversations while taking the mediator role, then reflect on the communication and process choices they made. Guided tiers add personalized review as described in the course.

Can I study on evenings or weekends?

Yes. The online curriculum is self-paced, making it possible to organize study around professional and family schedules. Individual coaching appointments in the Private Coaching option must be arranged.

What if I have questions about my state or enrollment?

Review the relevant court or program requirements and contact VirNet with your state and intended mediation role. We can explain the course format, but final eligibility and recognition decisions belong to the governing authority.

YOUR NEXT STEP

Start building your mediation skills.

One 40-hour curriculum, three ways to learn, and a practical focus on the conversations mediators actually navigate. Choose your preferred level of support and review the course before enrolling.

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