Mediation is one of the most frequently-used methods of dispute resolution in contemporary legal practice, given theextensive shortcomings of litigation such as its costs and adversarial character; it is also used extensively in communityjustice systems. This course provides an introduction to the process of mediation, an explanation of the different modelsof mediation and an outline of the various areas in which mediations, both voluntary and mandatory, occur in Australia andinternationally. It focuses on the interface between law and mediation with particular reference to the laws, court rules anddecided cases on mediation and ADR. It looks at the subject-matter critically in the light of the many competing forms ofdispute resolution currently available and the current wisdom on when mediation is suitable or not suitable. It looks closelyat the application and influence of ADR and mediation in legal practice and other areas, at issues of effectiveness, qualityand ethics which arise, and at possible career paths in this area. It propounds a balanced view of mediation’s potential benefits since the system is not a panacea for all manner of problems.

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More information can be found on the Course Outline Website.