JAMS ADR: A Podcast About Conflict Resolution, Mediation and Arbitration

In this podcast, JAMS neutrals Hon. Bonnie H. MacLeod (Ret.) and Hon. Nancy Holtz (Ret.) discuss what to look for when selecting a mediator and the questions and considerations that may guide that process. During this conversation, the judges share what they believe are the core criteria to look for when choosing a mediator, including strong mediation skills, empathy, reputation and temperament. They also discuss how subject matter experience comes second to strong mediation skills, and that parties should focus more on selecting mediators with a demonstrated ability to close cases and less on selecting an individual who is well versed in the jargon specific to their industry. Judge MacLeod and Judge Holtz also share how the process to dispute resolution can vary across mediators, the types of cases where mediators are the most valuable and the common questions received by mediators when parties are determining whom to approach for their case.

In this podcast, JAMS neutrals Hon. Wynne S. Carvill (Ret.) and Robin H. Gise, Esq., explore the factors that contribute to a successful mediation and the pitfalls that can impede the dispute resolution process. To start, they share their thoughts on the importance of timing and the exchange of information to help support the flow of mediation and then discuss the importance of managing unrealistic expectations and articulating proper risk assessment. Judge Carvill and Ms. Gise also exchange views on common assumptions made—sometimes incorrectly— by parties about mediation and the counteroffer process. The neutrals conclude with high-level insights on the “bigger picture” of the mediation process and avenues for moving the focal point away from just the desired dollar amount.

JAMS neutrals, along with Joan D’Ambrosio of Atheria Law and Kirsten Jackson of Latham & Watkins, share insights on current trends and what’s next when it comes to insurance coverage disputes.

In this podcast, JAMS neutrals Hon. Robert L. Dondero (Ret.), Hon. Allyson K. Duncan (Ret.) and Hon. Gregory M. Sleet (Ret.) explain the advantages of utilizing neutral evaluation prior to filling a brief or completing oral arguments. Drawing from their combined decades of experience on the bench, they discuss when neutral evaluation can be useful and the value that can be derived from the process, including improved litigation strategy. They also offer best practices and touch on how clients can support neutral evaluations by providing the right types—and amount—of background information, the feedback they have received from clients, and factors to consider when determining which neutral evaluators to contact to help with a specific case.

In this podcast, JAMS neutrals Hon. Grace G. Dickler (Ret.) and Hon. Karen G. Shields (Ret.) explore how the pandemic affected family law disputes, how virtual proceedings provided an avenue to keep cases moving forward and how the transition was received by neutrals, attorneys and parties. The neutrals also take a deep dive on the preparation that aids in resolving family law cases, helpful documents to have and the role that outside experts play in helping to facilitate negotiations between parties. Judge Dickler and Judge Shields offer their thoughts on the timeline for when to bring in a mediator and the complexities that are often involved in these cases. The conversation concludes with a discussion of how mediation can help parties get more involved with the outcome of their case and the prediction that mediation for family law disputes is going to continue to rise in popularity.

In this podcast, JAMS neutrals Judge Sherry Klein Heitler and Judge Richard McDermott give listeners a deeper look into the mediation process and how mediation can truly be a more beneficial alternative when managing personal injury cases. They examine the benefits of going through mediation as well as outline what the normal process looks like for personal injury (PI) disputes. Furthermore, they discuss their professional experiences overseeing and handling PI disputes from both the attorney and mediator perspectives and give suggestions for how to help settle these types of cases.

In this podcast, JAMS neutrals Judge Elizabeth Laporte and Tom Creel give listeners a deeper look into the role alternative dispute resolution (ADR) plays in intellectual property disputes. They examine the options available to parties and the customizations offered by each one. Furthermore, they discuss their personal experiences overseeing intellectual property (IP) disputes and what strategies might be advantageous for different parties, such as incorporating JAMS International Rules into contracts before a dispute arises.

In this podcast, JAMS Institute executive director, Rich Birke, and associate director and neutral, Deirdre Gallagher, give listeners an inside look at the training arm of JAMS. They discuss how the JAMS Institute has evolved with world and industry events, how and why they ensure neutrality, ethics and DE&I are interwoven throughout the curriculum, and the important role the JAMS Institute has played in making JAMS what it is today.

A podcast from JAMS featuring neutrals Barbara A. Reeves, Esq., CEDS, and Katherine Hope Gurun, Esq., on the top challenges businesses are facing as a result of supply chain disruption and how ADR techniques can help.

In this podcast, JAMS neutrals Barbara A. Reeves, Esq., CEDS, and Katherine Hope Gurun, Esq., provide insight on the top considerations for companies impacted by constant supply chain disruption. Barbara and Katherine specifically draw on their years of experience working at JAMS and other organizations to provide helpful tips for businesses that are navigating disruptions brought on by the pandemic, climate change, the war in Ukraine and other crises, outlining how mediation and arbitration can provide a template to help resolve related disputes.

A podcast from JAMS featuring JAMS Foundation Managing Director David Brandon and Alliance for Peacebuilding Executive Director Liz Hume discussing the award and AFP’s work and mission

In this podcast, JAMS Foundation Managing Director David Brandon and Alliance for Peacebuilding Executive Director Liz Hume discuss the meaning and background behind the JAMS Foundation’s Warren Knight Distinguished Service Award and why AFP was chosen as this year’s special recipient. Liz provides insight into AFP’s current goals, where she expects the Alliance will concentrate its efforts going forward and how the funding from the JAMS Foundation will support that mission. Ms. Hume advocates for the global need for peacebuilding and how that need has been amplified by the ongoing global pandemic, war in Ukraine and climate crisis.