New York State’s budget crisis has resulted in significant staff reductions and increasing backlog throughout its statewide court system. Federal Courts are being overwhelmed with new case filings daily. While the judiciary is working hard to ensure that its remaining resources are being used efficiently to minimize any impact these cuts have on litigants, litigants will be well-served by seeking alternative dispute resolution processes for their clients.

This full-day program will analyze the impact of the current budget crisis on litigants and the use of various alternative dispute resolution processes as possible solutions. Faculty consisting of members of the judiciary, academia, service providers, litigators and neutrals will discuss how each can play a role in combating the gridlock. Topics include customized dispute resolution systems, court-ordered mediation, and judicial involvement in ADR processes. A special session on impasse-breaking techniques in mediation will round out the day.

Registration and light breakfast begins at 8:00am.

Sessions run from 8:30am-4:30pm.

7 MCLE credits will be provided.