The Lodestar Mediation Clinic, an integral component of the nationally recognized Lodestar Dispute Resolution Program, helps students learn about alternatives to litigation while gaining practical experience about the mediation process. Student attorneys experience an intensive training program focusing on the theory, strategy and skills involved in the mediation of legal disputes, then act as mediators in civil (non-family) cases.

 

The Clinic has three mandatory training sessions that are typically scheduled prior to the start of semester, in addition to required class meetings. Students should expect to spend an average of 4-5 hours per week on out-of-class assignments in the last two-thirds of the semester. These assignments primarily are serving as a co-mediator in the Maricopa County Justice Courts, observing professional mediations, or participating in other dispute resolution programs on and off campus.

 

Interested students must submit a one-page statement of intent and attend an information session about the Mediation Clinic prior to enrollment. Admitted students must pass a background check before mediating in the Justice Court Mediation Program. The Clinic is a 6 credit hour course.