Mediation: Theory and Practice
Certificate(s): Public Interest and Social Justice Law (Skills)
Course Description:
This course combines both theory and practice skills. A variety of readings, exercises, videos, and role-plays will be used to encourage in-depth analysis of mediation concepts and the application of these concepts in practice. Topics to be covered include negotiation theory, the mediation process, the role of the mediator, ethical issues in mediation, dealing with power imbalances, and the lawyer’s role in the mediation process. Students will participate in exercises at various stages of the mediation process. Starting Summer 2009, this course will be a graded course.
Class Notes:
Experiential Course
NOTE FOR SUMMER 21: This class is being offered for 2 units.
Mediation has become an increasingly important form of dispute resolution in the practice of law and is a powerful tool for lawyers in their role as client problem solvers. This experiential course combines negotiation theory and a step-by-step application of concepts to practice. Topics to be covered include negotiation theory, the mediation process, ethical issues in mediation, dealing with power imbalances and communication gaps, and the lawyer’s and mediator’s respective roles in the mediation process. Students will do out-of-class readings and will participate in a variety of exercises and role-plays to achieve mastery at all stages of the mediation process. Evaluations will be based on class attendance, as well as preparedness and participation, out-of-class assignments and an open-book final examination. Given the participatory nature of this course, attendance is mandatory, cameras will be on and participants must have access to reliable video and audio capabilities.
