Faculty Sponsor: Professor Benjamin J. Cook

Description: 

Abraham Lincoln once wrote, “Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbors to compromise whenever they can. Point out to them how the nominal winner is often a real loser in fees, expenses, and waste of time. As a peacemaker the lawyer has a superior opportunity of being a good man [or woman]. There will still be business enough.” The Peacebuilding Academy will introduce students to the wide range of ways they can help clients resolve disputes outside of the courtroom, often in a more efficient, less costly, and more satisfying process. Students will spend an intensive (and fun!) week at scenic Bear Lake, Utah, where top conflict resolution experts will provide instruction on the theory and practice of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and teach students how to serve clients better by diversifying their lawyering skills. Students who participate in Peacebuilding Academy will also learn about career possibilities in ADR, including the emerging field of collaborative law, and will connect with top practitioners in various fields. Through hands-on activities and simulations, lectures, and discussions, students will learn to utilize a range of tools to be creative, inventive, forward-thinking problem-solvers who can resolve disputes and improve others’ lives by promoting the efficient and peaceful resolution of conflict.

A Word from Our Sponsor:

The Center for Peace and Conflict Resolution (CPCR) at the BYU Law School is committed to transforming conflict on campus and throughout the world. Through mediation, arbitration, training workshops, research, conferences, academic courses, and consultations, the CPCR assists both BYU and the community beyond campus in building skills and promoting understanding of peace, negotiation, communication, and conflict resolution.