Lawyers' representation of their clients increasingly calls for skill within a broad range of alternative dispute resolution processes. In this course, you will learn about the variety of dispute resolution procedures that operate under the ADR umbrella, within and outside of the court system (including mediation and arbitration). The goal is for students to understand the law and policy behind these alternatives relative to court adjudication, to be able to select the appropriate process for a client, and to effectively represent that client in the selected process. Guests include third party neutrals and advocates from a range of contexts, including federal court, private mediation, private and public arbitration, and corporate legal counsel.
Grades will be based on class participation and Option 1 (section 01) a series of short reflection essays on the readings and a 10-page research paper; or Option 2 (section 02) a 35-page research paper. Students electing option 1 (section 01) will be graded on a mandatory pass basis. Students electing option 2 (section 02) with consent of instructor will be graded on the H/P/R/F system and will receive Research (R) credit.