All spring term courses are scheduled to be offered fully online in an asynchronous format.
Arbitration
January 19 – March 15, 2025 | 2 law school credits
Faculty: Benjamin Davis, Professor of Law Emeritus, University of Toledo College of Law
This foundation course covers the salient points of U.S. arbitration law as it relates to domestic and international matters. The course curriculum begins with an introduction to the basic legal concepts that make up arbitration law and to the institutions that are central to arbitration practice. Consideration of the Federal Arbitration Act follows, along with a systematic treatment of the role of contract in arbitration and the function of subject matter inarbitrability. Problems relating to the enforcement of arbitral awards, the role of the arbitrator (focusing on the arbitrator’s functions, duties, and responsibilities), and other practice issues are examined. The basic facets of international commercial arbitration also are introduced. Through lectures, demonstrations, discussions, and simulations, this interactive curriculum is designed to foster effective use of contemporary arbitral processes.
Mediation
January 19 – April 25, 2025 | 3 law school credits
Faculty: James Coben, Senior Fellow, Dispute Resolution Institute , Emeritus Professor of Law, Mitchell Hamline School of Law
Through discussion, simulations, and roleplay, this course focuses on the structure and goals of the mediation process and on the skills and techniques mediators use to aid parties in overcoming barriers to dispute resolution. The course also examines the underlying negotiation orientations and strategies that mediators may confront and employ; the roles of attorneys and clients; dealing with difficult people and power imbalances; cultural, race, and social identity considerations; and ethical issues for lawyers and mediators. In addition, special attention is devoted to the art of successful representation of clients in mediation.
Questions should be directed to Kitty Atkins, [email protected]