This sourcebook is a reference guide on mediation & conference programs in the federal courts of appeals -- programs that offer a way for courts to deal with increasing filings without increased demand for circuit judgeships. The sourcebook responds to requests from the appellate courts for a detailed description of other circuits' mediation & conference programs as well as more general information about what happens in other circuits. In addition, it provides a means for attorneys to learn more about these programs; providing this information to attorneys helps the courts work more efficiently.

This report details the varying appellate practices and procedures of the U.S. courts of appeals within the generally uniform appellate scheme imposed by the Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure.

The value of mediation has been widely acknowledged worldwide, as shown by the number of jurisdictions in which the courts enforce obligations on parties to negotiate and adopt mediation to settle construction disputes. This book examines the expansion and development of court-connected construction mediation provisions across a number of jurisdictions, including the England and Wales, the USA, South Africa and Hong Kong. It includes contributions from academics and professionals in six different countries to produce a truly international comparative study, which is of high importance to construction managers as well as legal professionals.

Covers: perceived threats to COA, the work of the COA, effects of caseload volume, proposals for structural change and more. 5 appendices. Charts and graphs.