The EDNY ADR Department has developed the Pilot EDNY Mediator Incubator, a mediation mentorship program designed to offer practical experience to junior attorneys (less than 15 years of experience) with a substantiated interest in mediating federal cases, but who have little experience as a mediator. To be eligible to apply, applicants must be admitted to practice in the Eastern District of New York. Applicants are also required to be admitted to the Bar of the State of New York for at least five (5) years and must have completed a total of twenty-four (24) hours of mediation training. The required twenty-four (24) hours of mediation training may be the result of attendance at several distinct programs, or at one twenty-four (24) hour training.
After admission to the program, incubator candidates will be required to attend an initial training and orientation session, observe a minimum of three (3) EDNY mediations, and co-mediate at least three (3) EDNY mediations with an experienced EDNY Mediation Panelist. Any observations or co-mediations done through the EDNY Mediator Incubator will be done on a pro bono basis. Each incubator candidate will be matched with an experienced mentor. After successful completion of the EDNY Mediator Incubator, candidates will be eligible for, but not guaranteed, admission to the EDNY Mediation Panel. Applicants must complete the enclosed application and submit one letter of reference from a person who has direct knowledge of the applicant’s interest in and experience with mediation, and one letter of reference from a person who has direct knowledge of the applicant’s legal knowledge and areas of expertise. Applicants will be assessed based on their experience with mediation, including mediation advocacy and active participation in mediation and dispute resolution organizations and associations. Availability and commitment to the program will also be taken into consideration.
Here is a link to the application: img.nyed.uscourts.gov/files/forms/Mediator Incubator Application and Instructions.pdf