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Cutting-edge mediation topics explored at UF’s first Litigator Mediator Forum

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Litigator Mediator Forum participants

The University of Florida Institute for Dispute Resolution at the UF College of Law recently hosted its inaugural Litigator Mediator Forum.

The University of Florida Institute for Dispute Resolution at the Levin College of Law hosted its inaugural Litigator Mediator Forum on October 17.

Interim Dean Merritt McAlister and Donna Erez-Navot, director of the College of Law Mediation Clinic and associate director of the institute, introduced the program. UF College of Law alumnus Harold Oehler of Oehler Mediation, who also serves as The Florida Bar’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Section outreach chair, emceed the event. Approximately 70 legal professionals across the country attended, which was offered in person and online.

Federal Magistrate Judge Phillip R. Lammens of the Middle District of Florida joined a panel of trial lawyers and mediators to debate cutting-edge, mediation-related topics during the first hour of the event. Topics included: the use of joint session versus caucus-only mediation; Zoom versus in-person mediation; best practices for opening statements for attorneys in mediation; and the use of pressure versus persuasion by mediators.

In the second hour, trial lawyers, mediators, judges, and law students participated in group discussions to contribute ideas to the Florida Mediation Best Practices Handbook. The book, written by Oehler, includes contributions from more than 800 mediators, trial lawyers, and other mediation stakeholders.

Legal organizations wishing to host a Litigator Mediator Forum may contact Oehler at [email protected].  Best practices suggestions for publication in the Handbook are also welcome.

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