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Visit the ADR Section's online directory at http://www.selectadr.com


ADR Section Grant Program Application (pdf)


Section History

The Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Section was founded on April 22, 1995, originally called the Conflict Management and Dispute Resolution (CoManDR) Section, when the Board of Governors of the Minnesota State Bar Association approved its bylaws.

This action was in response to the increasing use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in the State of Minnesota and particularly the recent mandate requiring consideration of ADR in civil matters. That mandate, codified in the General Rules of Practice for Minnesota Courts, Rule 114, has since been expanded to encompass family law matters.

In the bylaws, the stated purpose for the section is to (1) promote the work of the Minnesota State Bar Association (MSBA) in the field of Conflict Management and Dispute Resolution, and to (2) improve the practice, elevate the standards, and advance the cause of Alternative Dispute Resolution in the State of Minnesota.

Unlike other sections of the MSBA, membership in the section is not limited to MSBA members, but includes "any interested member of the public." Since the State of Minnesota does not require qualified neutrals to also be attorneys, this departure is significant in that it encourages all neutrals in the State of Minnesota to participate actively in the Section.

Mission Statement

To advance and promote the field of conflict management and dispute resolution, and to improve the practice, elevate the standards, and educate practitioners, the bench and the public regarding ADR in Minnesota.

Goals

Continue programming for monthly lunch meetings; establish relationships with other MSBA sections whose members use ADR services; maintain and promote a web directory of section members; participate actively in the ADR Institute; provide education to other members of the MSBA and the public regarding the benefits of using ADR; provide commentary and collaborate with other groups on legislative and ethical issues; publicize and educate regarding key developments and opportunities in ADR.

Looking Ahead to the Section's Future

Goals
The Section will continue to hold monthly meetings which address topics of interest to ADR professionals and those interested in the field; monitor proposed legislation and rules affecting ADR processes; maintain on-going communications with the Joint Committee on the Model Standards of Conduct for Mediators; work closely with the ADR Review Board in ensuring the enforcement of ethical standards; provide commentary and input on proposed uniform acts; participate in the planning and presentation of the Annual ADR Institute; promote the use of ADR in federal courts; encourage collaboration with other Sections of the state bar and other ADR organizations; and encourage active participation by all individuals with an interest in the use of alternative dispute resolution.


Contact

You can obtain more information about the Section, its activities, and the benefits of membership by contacting one of its members.

2008-09 Section Council:

  • John Schulz - Chair
    McGrann Shea Anderson Carnival Straughn & Lamb Chtd
    (612) 338-2525
  • Madge Thorsen - Secretary
    Thorsen Kaplan LLP
    (612) 767-3040
  • David Lauth - Treasurer
    Dorsey & Whitney LLP
    (612) 340-2600

2008-09 Section Council Roster


MSBA Liaison:
Kayla Jurrens
(612) 278-6305


View Promulgation of Amendments to the MN General Rules of Practice

View Rule 114 01-01-2005 Amendments

View Rule 114 01-01-2005 Amendments redline version

View General Rules of Practice Committee recommendations regarding Rule 114 and other matters

View
Commentary on the Revised Uniform Mediation Act

View the Report on the Revised Uniform Arbitration Act.

View the new Rule 114 Appendix: Code of Ethics for Neutrals.

View Comments and Recommendations on the Proposed Amendment of the ABA's Model Rules of Professional Conduct To Allow Multidisciplinary Practice Organizations.

- Last Updated 11/06/08 -