Former NSW Chief Justice inspires future lawyers

Document Type

Media Release

Publication Date

Spring 23-9-2010

Publisher Name

The University of Notre Dame Australia, Sydney Campus

Publication Place

Sydney

Abstract

Former Chief Justice and Lieutenant Governor of NSW, Sir Laurence Street AC KCMG QC, was an inspiration to fifth-year law students when he spoke to them about his personal experience and passion for mediation in a recent visit to The University of Notre Dame Australia.

Addressing the Sydney Campus’ Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) class, which focuses on negotiation and mediation techniques, Sir Laurence gave the students advice and guidance from years of ‘hands on’ experience in ADR.

Focusing on the practical application of mediation, Sir Laurence discussed the suitability of ADR in the Australian legal system and the potential future challenges for legal practitioners adopting its methods.

“It is far better to get cases sorted before they go to court. Mediation is a vital skill in legal practice; it makes life easier for everyone, especially the clients,” said Sir Laurence.

”It is an informal process aimed at enabling the parties to dispute and discuss their differences in total privacy with the assistance of a neutral third party: the mediator.”

Fifth-year law student, Mark Yum, said it was truly inspiring to meet the Judge and receive advice from such a well respected member of the legal profession.

“It was a great learning experience listening to him speak about his personal knowledge. The whole class hung on his every word,” said Mr Yum.

“Everyone appreciated the opportunity to engage with one of the best legal minds in Australia.”

Since leaving the Bench, Sir Laurence has been actively engaged in commercial mediation, dispute and probity consultancy and has conducted more than 2500 successful mediations and negotiations.

He continues to be associated with a number of leading Australian and international mediation organisations and is Chairman of the Australian Government’s International Legal Services Advisory Council.

Media Contact:

Moira Saunders
02 8204 4407

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS