Why did things go better out West?

Just as Florida ended its mandatory foreclosure mediation program, the Justice Department praised Nevada's foreclosure mediation program in a recent report saying it provides a road map for other states to follow in addressing the continuing fallout from the housing crisis. Nevada, much like Florida, has some of the highest numbers of foreclosure filings in the country. In the report, data recorded by program staffers shows that since that program started, 13,813 Nevada homeowners participated. Of those, nearly 3,900 homeowners obtained loan modifications that allowed them to stay in their homes. More than 2,000 others agreed to foreclosure alternatives, such as short sales. Much like Florida, remaining participants of failed mediations blamed lender required documents or representatives without authority to take action. A drop-off in filings following robo-signing scandals may have skewed success, as well. However, the Justice Department apparently evaluated how states addressed the foreclosure crisis and singled out Nevada's program for developing policies and procedures other states could implement. See article - http://bit.ly/wg9N7O

Inaugural "Aspects of ADR" Seminar

On November 11, 2011, the Alternative Dispute Resoution Committee of the Orange County Bar Association in conjunction with the Insurance and Technologies Committees, presents a unique seminar, where you will be exposed to a wide range of topics under the Alternative Dispute Resolution umbrella. Effective speakers and panelists in the areas of mediation, negotiation, advocacy within ADR and use of new technology will engage the audience and inspire spirited conversation on related topics. The seminar is not just geared to members who are mediators and arbitrators, but also to litigation practitioners whose clients utilize recognized ADR processes to resolve cases. Featured Speakers: Jay Cohen, Todd Smith, Bob Dietz, Caryn Diamond, Leslie Moore, Nancy Stuparich, Kimberly Homer, Liz McCausland, Phil Bonus Moderated by Lawrence Kolin, Founding Chair, OCBA ADR Committee Presentations: * Use of Technology in Making Effective ADR presentations – Old School v. New School * Understanding the Perspective of Insurers at Mediation * Potential Malpractice Arising from ADR * Keynote on Mediation Ethics by the ‘Dean of Mediators’ * Residential Foreclosure Mediation / Update on the RMFMP Fee: $45 (includes program and lunch) CLE approved - General 5.0, Ethics 1.0 - along with eligible CME for Certified Mediators, including Diversity 1.0 Registration: mariew@ocbanet.org or 407-422-4551 x233 Location: OCBA Center, 880 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32801 URL: http://content.orangecountybar.org/content/uploads/PDFs/ADR%20AGENDA%20FINAL_11_11.pdf