The Rules Regulating the Conduct of Proceedings of Magistrates' Courts of South Africa, in particular mediation, were published on 18th March 2014. These Rules will come into effect on the 1st December 2014 (GG 37448). The Minister still has to deal with the following sections of the Rules 74 (2),  86 (1) and 86 (2). Section 74 (2) refers to the particular courts to which the Rule will be applied. Sections 86 (1) and (2) refer to the qualifications, standards and levels of mediators, and the schedule of accredited mediators. GG 37448 published on the 1st August sets out the Minister's proposals in regard to mediator accreditation norms and standards. Comments may be submitted by the 28th August 2014. Copies of the Rules and the draft standards are available on our website at the link HERE.