Mediation Training Done!

Well, I have waited some time for the 40 hour mediation training to be offered by our local bar association- Denton County Bar- and it finally happened! I finished up the course on Friday and I can't believe what all I learned. I am not sure what expectations I had going in, I have participated in several mediations as an attorney and even once as a mediator. That being said, I was really excited to get the training. Denton County has an alternative dispute resolution center, DCAP. The purpose of the center is to provide low cost mediation for parties to resolve their disputes without having to leave it up to the Judge. 
I love it, I think it is an invaluable resource to litigants, especially in family cases. No, it does not work in every case, but I believe a majority can be solved this way. Think about families with children, parents divorcing who have to co parent these children for the rest of their lives, a nasty court battle does not foster co parenting. Mediation truly gives the parties a chance to tell their story and work through their case with a sense of control over the issues. 
So, the training, it was great! Not only did I learn a lot but I also got to have a couple of my law school professors as teachers again. Learning the mediation process from those who have been practicing mediation since it came to be in Texas was a great learning experience. It has given me a new outlook and renewed hope to help people restore their lives with a greater amount of peace than the courtroom can every offer. 
Happy Mediating!!

It's a new year!

Well- here is to 2012- first day back in the office since the new year and I am thinking there is a lot to be done. First and foremost thank God for a successful first year in business, I can't believe it has been a year! I made it! Thank you to all of my friends and family for their support and their referrals, I could not have made it without the word of mouth referrals from all of you.
In my second year I hope to reach out and become more involved in the community and the local bar association. I hope to keep my desk more organized and and stay on a good schedule. Here's to 2012!