LAW 722 - Resolving Civil Disputes

This course is designed for students who are interested in learning how to effectively incorporate mediation theory into practice. Through lecture, discussion, video simulations, exercises and role-plays, you will learn the techniques underlying all phases of the facilitative mediation model of mediation including: convening and preparing for mediation, opening the mediation session, defining the issues, facilitating communication and interest-based negotiation, creative problem-solving, and reaching settlement or closure. Particular emphasis will be placed on skills essential to effective mediation, such as active listening, formulating questions, reframing, developing rapport, using language effectively, and non-verbal communication. In addition, we will examine legal, ethical and policy issues that arise in the mediation contest. This is a 3 credit, graded course.