2022 Lawrence Lecture on Dispute Resolution

Stacia Jones presents, A Better Way to Negotiate That Drives Towards Equity and Justice.

We are living in extraordinary times: there is a surge in labor union activity; we are swirling in the aftermath of the largest movement for civil rights in American history; there is an ever-increasing socio-economic and cultural divide; and there is a tenacious response of intimidation and resistance to any effort toward collective liberation. As we evaluate how we got here, we acknowledge the institutions, systems, and standards that have been in place for hundreds of years, persistently reinforcing the status quo and hindering us from real, meaningful progress. Drawing on more than 22 years of experience, Jones will demonstrate that lawyers and corporate executives can accelerate meaningful progress towards parity and justice by consciously engaging in negotiations, decision-making, and advice that challenges exclusionary institutions, systems, and standards by: centering the marginalized; redefining what a real “win” is; challenging how lawyers best advocate for their clients; and disrupting traditional manners of weighing risks and getting to an optimum compromise. Through her talk, you will be encouraged to use your negotiation acumen in a manner that best represents your client and drives us towards a more equitable and just society.