Pro Bono Program

Juvenile Arbitration Program

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Students Ready to Make a Difference Through Arbitration

On September 30, 2008, 7 USC School of Law students completed 24 hours of training to become volunteer juvenile arbitrators. As arbitrators they will review cases involving juvenile offenders, listen to all sides of the issues and decide on appropriate sanctions. 11th Circuit Juvenile Arbitration Director Kathryn Barton noted, "typically we only have 2-3 law students in a training but this year we decided to allow a larger group to participate- they have great energy and relate well to the juveniles." At the last training session the students were addressed by the Honorable Richard W. Chewning, III, 11th Circuit Family Court. Judge Chewning provided his insight into the effect of good volunteer arbitrators on the lives of children and his long term commitment to the program.

The Law School Pro Bono Program and the Juvenile Arbitration Program have been partners for 18 years.

Left to right: Front row, Colin Cronin (2L), Matthew Nickles (2L), Patrick Haase (2L); Second row, Kimberly Beard (2L), Ruth Hindman (1L), Kathryn Barton and Judge Chewning

Courtney Williams (1L) and Lee Cole (1L) compare notes and ideas as they prepare for their first arbitration