The University of Montana School of Law

Mediation Clinic
Law School Clinic Suite

Professor Eduardo Capulong, Director
406.243.6707
eduardo.capulong@umontana.edu

Academic Year only – Maximum of 6 students

The Mediation Clinic at The University of Montana School of Law trains students to intervene and resolve disputes out-of-court. In addition, the Mediation Clinic studies the fields of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), problem-solving and conflict management from a multidisciplinary perspective, and pursues a range of projects related to these fields. Using actual cases and disputes, the Mediation Clinic teaches students to be skilled, professional neutrals and advocates in non-litigation settings. In the process, students provide a valuable community service and gain a deeper understanding of relevant areas of law, including family and landlord and tenant law, and professional responsibility.

Clinical interns are required to have taken ADR 614, a three-credit course which includes a 40-hour training on mediation basics. Interns begin the clinic by observing and debriefing four mediations. Interns then co-facilitate four mediations with an experienced mediator and thereafter are expected to volunteer for as many mediations as their schedules allow, either as lead mediator or co-facilitator. Experienced supervising attorneys, mediators and the faculty supervisor supervise all intern fieldwork. Interns participate in a weekly seminar and pursue a host of substantive projects to analyze and inform their work.

In partnership with community dispute resolution centers, state and tribal courts, nonprofits, public schools and other organizations, clinical interns:

• Mediate cases referred by the Missoula County Community Dispute Resolution Center, Justice Court and District Court; the Montana Legal Services Association; The University of Montana; and the Tribal Court of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Reservation;
• Train other students enrolled in non-clinical ADR courses in the University;
• Coach and teach peer mediation/conflict management/resolution programs in area middle and high schools;
• Advise organizations in structuring and administering their conflict-resolution programs; and
• Collaborate with the State Bar of Montana in any number of ADR-related projects.

Because of the intensive nature of the Mediation Clinic, prospective students are expected to prioritize clinic work and projects during the school year.

Prerequisite: ADR 614

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