2026 Dispute Resolution Section Annual Mediation Tournament

The New York State Bar Association's Dispute Resolution Section announces the return of its Annual Mediation Tournament! The Tournament, which launched in March of 2019, is now scheduled for March 27 – 28, 2026 at Dechert LLP, 1095 6th Ave., New York NY, 10036 and is open to law schools and LLM students nationwide.

The Tournament was created and is run by its Executive Director, Leslie Berkoff of Moritt Hock & Hamroff LLP.

The Tournament is unique in that it enables three-member teams of law students to develop and display both advanced mediation and advocacy skills while participating as mediators, advocates, and in-house client representatives. The event is judged by a respected group of experienced mediators and practitioners and the final rounds will be judged by New York State and Federal judges. The Final Round of Judges will be announced closer to the date of the Tournament. A variety of cash prizes are awarded to the winning team and mediator, as well as an award for best mediation statement.

This year due to an overwhelming response, we are allowing each school to sign up one team initially, and then a second team on a wait list. Each team needs to be registered separately. If there is room, then the second team will be chosen based upon the order that they register for the Tournament. However, please note that space is limited so teams will be allotted spots on a first come first serve basis.

To register a student team (at a cost of $300 per team) please click "register here" and then "register". You will be able to register your school, the coach, and the student participants.

Deadline is November 14, 2025. This event sells out. Register early!

The Tournament is a chance to display both mediation advocacy skills and mediator skills, allowing students to participate in both categories; in this Tournament, the students will serve as mediators as well as advocates. Open to students from all law schools or LLM programs.

Cash Prizes totaling $6,000.00 

1st Place Team – $2,000.00 

2nd Place Team – $1,250.00 

3rd Place Team – $750.00 

Mediation Advocate Award – $1,000.00 

Best Mediation Statement – $1,000.00 

$300.00 Registration Fee for each Team. If you are having any trouble registering, please contact our Member Resource Center team at 800-582-2452.