Northwest Institute for Dispute Resolution
Professional mediation training for attorneys and judges
The University of Idaho College of Law established the Northwest Institute for Dispute Resolution in 1997 to meet the growing demand for high-quality dispute resolution training in the Northwest at a reasonable price. The institute’s annual training is one of the few programs in Idaho that is approved for attorneys and judges to qualify for the Idaho Supreme Court’s mediation roster, an official list of qualified, neutral third-party mediators approved by the court to help parties resolve disputes outside of litigation.
Each year, the institute features nationally recognized faculty leading affordable mediation training seminars designed for current law students and members of the Idaho State Bar and Idaho Judiciary.
Most courses are eligible for Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credit.
Virtual Basic 40 Family Mediation Training
Taught by Robert K. “Bob” Collins, Basic Family Mediation is designed for those who wish to practice family mediation or to become better equipped to counsel and represent people in family matters. It is structured as a comprehensive, practical and dynamic blend of lectures, discussions, exercises and role-plays. Bob brings to the course years of experience and insights for negotiating support, tools for bringing closure to negotiations, information on ethical issues of practice and answers to the practical questions of starting as a mediator.
You’ll learn how to:
- Utilize 36 practical mediation techniques
- Make parenting challenges more manageable
- Answer difficult divorce questions with confidence
- Understand negotiation motivations in divorce
- Develop creative approaches to child and spousal support
- Avoid tax traps in family reorganizations
Apply mediation strategies to family disputes and prenuptial negotiations
Event details
May 18-22, 2026
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PDT each day, including a 1-hour lunch
The Northwest Institute for Dispute Resolution reserves the right to cancel the course with seven days’ notice.
Cost and credit information
The $995 registration fee includes all course materials. Approval for CLE credit is pending.
Course delivery
This course will be held virtually via Zoom. Registered participants will receive access details prior to the course.
Event registration
Non-law students should register and pay for this course. Space is limited.
Contact us
For more information on the Northwest Institute for Dispute Resolution and upcoming trainings, contact Megan Ellsworth at 208-885-6541, 1-877-200-4455 or mellsworth@uidaho.edu.