Child Support Mediation Clinic

Catalog description

This clinic trains students to engage in mediation practice, gives students a chance to work as mediators for the court, and explores the merits and approaches to this alternative to litigation. The course develops problem solving, negotiation, and conflict management skills. Seminar focuses on mediation strategy and simulations, exploring the theory and practice the techniques underlying all phases of the facilitative mediation model of mediation. Students provide vital mediation services to the litigants in child support disputes and potentially other areas of need in Suffolk County Family Court. The course facilitates student development of essential mediator skills such as active listening, formulating questions, reframing, creating rapport, using language effectively, deescalating negative emotions, and non-verbal communication.