Our section is comprised of well over 100 paid members, and also includes many non-member ADR professionals committed to advancing quality ADR processes in our state. Our meetings occur on the third Monday of every other month at 4 p.m. at the Oklahoma Bar Center and video-cast to the Tulsa County Bar Center offices.

Section activity this year has focused on four major areas: formulating procedural rules for arbitrations under the Revised Uniform Arbitration Act; promoting mediator quality; producing a quality CD/DVD educational video of a mediation conference which will assist attorneys and litigants prepare for a meaningful mediation experience. We also produce an informative section newsletter, keep members informed of continuing legal education seminars and notify them of other training opportunities.

Last year we appointed two sub-committees: one for arbitration issues and one for mediation issues. Each group has worked very hard this year, assisting attorneys in maintaining competency in ADR processes, while exploring ways to enhance public confidence in alternatives to court proceedings. The arbitration sub-committee intends to track the federal court rules currently being developed for arbitration proceedings. The mediation sub-committee has consulted and coordinated with the ABA Section on Dispute Resolution Task Force on the promotion of mediation quality. This sub-committee has also worked with the MCLE Commission regarding standards for mediation training in OBA-sponsored CLE seminars.

We also have a great committee which is planning the production of a high quality CD/DVD of a mediation conference for educating attorneys and litigants. This is being accomplished through a partnership between our ADR Section and the Institute for Dispute Resolution at Oklahoma State University.

Finally, we have given new life and vitality to our section newsletter ADR CONNECTIONS thanks to a few talented and creative members.

We appreciate the opportunity to submit this report. Any questions can be directed to Barry Davis or Larry Yadon, the current co-chairs.

Larry Yadon
Chairperson