Dispute Resolution Institute at Hamline

Established in 1991, the Dispute Resolution Institute (DRI) offers rigorous academic discourse, hands-on simulation experience, and cross-disciplinary examination of ADR themes in domestic and summer abroad courses for law students, lawyers, and other professionals. DRI's mission is to educate students in a full range of theory and skills needed to be successful creative agents of conflict resolution and social healing both at home and abroad.

Hamline University School of Law is ranked 4th in the nation in Dispute Resolution. "America's Best Graduate Schools" U.S. News & World Report (2009 Edition).

Message from the Director

 

 

In a world drawn ever closer by globalization, yet still fractured by historical and cultural division, evolution in conflict resolution management is critical. Thus, we teach our students mediation because it provides a unique perspective on mutual understanding and creative problem-solving. We teach our students the art of negotiation because it is central to both making and saving deals. We teach our students arbitration because it is the global forum of choice for business. We offer a window into new ways of conceptualizing and delivering justice, ranging from the challenge of implementing the healing focus of restorative justice practices to the practicalities of online dispute resolution. We encourage our students to actively explore questions of professional identity so they can seek the satisfaction that comes from a close connection between their work as conflict resolvers and their most deeply held values. And, we have made a commitment to explore all of these subjects and themes in international contexts out of the conviction that it is critical for our students to push the boundaries of their own comfort level through deliberate exposure to different cultures and legal systems.

James R. Coben, Director