Mediation Certification & Courthouse Practicum

Catalog description

Students in this course will be trained to become certified mediators and then develop their mediation skills through hands-on experience mediating in court. The course starts with a mandatory intensive mediation skills training conducted by the Center for Conflict Resolution (CCR) at the beginning of the semester. The course will thereafter meet once a week as part of CCR's certification process to discuss, practice and improve upon student mediation skills. Students who meet all of CCR's certification requirements will be certified as CCR volunteer mediators and mediate actual cases in Cook County courts, while continuing to meet in class to discuss and build on what they learn in the mediations. Upon completion of this course and the CCR certification process, students will be able to continue volunteering as mediators for CCR, as long as they continue to meet CCR's volunteer requirements. Instructor Permission Required. Spots are limited so students are encouraged not to delay seeking permission to register for the course. To apply, email Professors Block and Eatherton. Preference will be given to students who have already completed a mediation or negotiation course, whose fall schedules are compatible with the court mediation schedule, and who are in their final year of school. Those who do not get a spot may request to be put on the waitlist. Enrollment Requirements: Restricted to J.D. and LL.M. students