One of the primary goals of ODS is to foster widespread use of cost-saving mediation techniques to resolve conflicts. To achieve that goal, ODS offers state-of-the-art negotiation and mediation training to judges, attorneys and state agency personnel.  In FY 2006, ODS trained 185 people.  

In past years, ODS has trained more than 100 Superior Court and Administrative Law Judges in settlement techniques. As an approved provider of basic and advanced mediation training for attorneys on the State Court Mediation Roster, ODS trained hundreds of attorneys in basic and advanced mediation.

ODS has also provided training to more than 10 state agencies in negotiation and mediation techniques in order to avoid and reduce conflict both within an agency, such as employment disputes, and conflicts between agencies and private entities. 

More than 100 members of the New Jersey State Police also have received ODS training that is designed to improve communication skills and lower conflict. More than 150 senior state officials have been trained by ODS in negotiation and mediation techniques to enhance their ability to manage their respective agencies. 

For more information on training, contact our office at (609) 292-1773 or email PublicAdvocate@advocate.state.nj.us.