Mediation enhances skill in communicating ideas, listening to and dealing with parties, identifying underlying sources of conflict, and facilitating settlements. HMP provides an invaluable service to the community by offering a constructive alternative to litigation and by modeling conflict-resolution techniques. HMP members have many opportunities to interact with students and the community and teach them dispute-resolution skills through the Program's various training programs. For instance, HMP members have led dispute-resolution training programs for resident assistants at Harvard College. Training is offered in the fall and spring semesters.
Enrollment is limited to ensure that all mediators get cases on a regular basis.
Students who complete basic training become qualified to mediate in local courts. Beginning mediators are paired with more experienced HMP members and receive guidance and feedback from court liaisons. Student attorneys serve as advocates for prisoners charged with violating prison regulations, as well as representing clients in 15-year parole and revocation hearings before the Massachusetts Parole Board. We occasionally litigate cases in state and federal courts. PLAP gives its members full responsibility over their own cases.