Arbitration has become a major aspect of legal practice in such fields as commercial law, securities law, family law, medical malpractice, employment law and others. This course examines the developing law of arbitration and the relationship between private arbitration and the judicial system. It addresses issues such as the enforceability of agreements to arbitrate and mediate, confidentiality and privilege in mediation, arbitral due process, judicial review of arbitration awards, and the effect of arbitration on statutory rights. It also examines the legal issues involved in the use of alternative dispute resolution in federal and state judicial systems. The course includes six two-hour sessions to be held every other week in which there will be simulation exercises, discussions of videotapes, and problem-solving exercises concerning different dispute resolution techniques.