NC S709

Establishes a Dispute Resolution Fund within the Judicial Department to receive administrative fees (up to $200) collected from mediator and mediation training program certification and renewals, with funds used to support Dispute Resolution Commission operations.

Replaces references to "any agency established to enforce standards of conduct for mediators" with "the Dispute Resolution Commission" in statutes governing mediated settlement conferences and mediation procedures in superior court, district court, and clerk's court.

Makes it unlawful to falsely represent oneself as a certified mediator or to falsely represent a mediation training program as certified, with violators subject to Class 2 misdemeanor charges and civil penalties up to $500 per day.

Authorizes the Dispute Resolution Commission to issue cease and desist letters to individuals falsely claiming mediator certification status.

Allows the Dispute Resolution Commission chair to employ an executive director and other necessary staff, and permits commission representation by special counsel or the Attorney General in hearings and appeals.