In mid‑November 2025, the Faculty of Law at Özyeğin University opened a new chapter for students who wish to gain practical experience in a specific area of Turkish law. The university’s Moot Law Firm now dedicates its program to mediation law, offering students a structured, case‑based simulation that mirrors real‑world judicial and negotiation processes.
Why Mediation Law Matters for Future Legal Professionals
Mediation is recognized by Turkish courts as a preferred method for dispute resolution, encouraged by recent amendments in the Turkish Code of Civil Procedure. By training students in this field, Özyeğin University equips them with skills that are in demand by law firms, corporate legal departments, and public agencies. Participants learn to draft mediation applications, conduct sessions, and create minutes that reflect the substantive and procedural nuances of Turkish mediation practice.
Key Competencies Developed
- Negotiation skills – advising parties and guiding them toward mutually acceptable solutions.
- Drafting proficiency – preparing mediation judgments, agreements, and documentation required by courts.
- Analytical thinking – applying relevant statutes and case law to fictional disputes.
- Client communication – interacting with simulated parties and managing expectations.
These competencies are essential for any legal career, and the moot structure translates classroom knowledge into hands‑on practice.
Program Structure and Timeline
The training schedule spans from 26 November to 26 December 2025. Students receive fictional mediation cases and are guided through every stage of the process:
- Pre‑mediation preparation – building case files and drafting initial mediation applications.
- In‑person mediation sessions – acting as mediator, witnesses, or parties under supervision.
- Post‑mediation documentation – recording minutes, drafting settlement agreements, and filing final reports with the court.
The program blends classroom theory with simulated practice sessions, ensuring participants complete a full mediation cycle before the program concludes.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
Applicants must have finished at least 150 credits of their law studies and belong to Özyeğin University’s Faculty of Law. The selective process rewards academic diligence and a demonstrated interest in dispute resolution.
Upon application review, 15 students will receive a certificate of participation after successfully completing all training components. The dean’s office and the Legal Clinics Coordinator, Lect. Dr. Selmin Cansu Demir, oversee the program’s execution.
How to Apply
Applications close on 24 November 2025. Interested candidates should fill out the online form available at https://forms.gle/9xBo9KNM1f7wsYyLA. The form requests personal information, academic records, and a brief statement outlining why mediation law is appealing to the applicant.
Application deadlines are firm: late submissions will not be considered.
Write to us if you require additional information about the program.
Getting the Most Out of the Moot Law Firm
To stand out during the selection process and make the most of the experience, students should consider the following steps:
- Research mediation literature – read recent Turkish court rulings on mediation and review international best practices.
- Engage with the Faculty of Law’s legal clinics – volunteer for current mediation assistance projects to build a portfolio.
- Create a case study portfolio – solve sample mediation scenarios and summarise your approach to use as evidence of capability.
- Participate in cross‑disciplinary workshops – such as those offered by the Graduate School of Social Sciences, to gain broader perspectives on conflicts.
- Maintain open communication with the program coordinator—seek guidance on form completion and reflect on your goals.
Practice Tips During the Program
- Arrive prepared for each session with a clear outline of facts, applicable law, and desired outcomes.
- Record detailed minutes using the templates provided; accuracy is essential for court submission.
- Take time during pauses to review intervention points and adjust strategies when necessary.
- Seek feedback from faculty after each mediation session to refine future approaches.
- Reflect on each case in a case log—note what worked, what didn’t, and why.
Impacts on Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Moot Law Firm with mediation experience are attractive to firms that handle large volumes of civil disputes, NGOs focused on human rights, and public legal departments implementing alternative dispute resolution programs. The certificate serves as a formal recognition of practical mediation competence and can be highlighted on CVs and professional profiles.
Legal Education and the Future of Turkish Dispute Settlement
As Turkey advances its legal framework on mediation, institutions like Özyeğin University play a pivotal role in shaping the next wave of legal practitioners. This initiative aligns with the university’s mission to blend rigorous academic instruction with real‑world training, ensuring graduates are job‑ready and ethically grounded.
Additional Resources and Opportunities
Law students interested in deepening their understanding of mediation can explore related events hosted by the Faculty:
- Monthly mediation workshops featuring guest speakers from the Turkish Bar Association.
- Annual Law & Justice conference, which includes a dedicated track on alternative dispute resolution.
- Online webinars covering recent changes in the Turkish Mediation Law.
- Mentorship programs linking students with practicing mediators.
These resources complement the moot experience and broaden networking prospects.
Schedule a Free Consultation to Learn More
Curious about the specifics of the mediation cases or how this program could fit with your academic plan? Schedule a free consultation with the Moot Law Firm coordinator and receive tailored guidance.
Contact Information
Legal Clinics Coordinator
Lect. Dr. Selmin Cansu Demir
Email: [email protected]
Faculty of Law, Özyeğin University
Çekmeköy Campus, Nişantepe District, Orman Street, 34794 Çekmeköy – İstanbul
Phone: +90 (216) 564 90 00
Email: [email protected]
Take the Next Step in Your Legal Career
Apply by 24 November 2025 and become part of a program that bridges theory and practice in Turkey’s evolving field of mediation law. This is a unique chance to enhance your résumé, expand your professional network, and contribute to alternative dispute resolution in a tangible way.
Submit Your Application Today
Ready to apply? Click the following link: Submit your application today. Be sure to include any supporting documents that demonstrate your academic standing and interest in mediation.
Have Questions? Write to Us
For any inquiries regarding eligibility, the application process, or program details, don’t hesitate to write to us or contact the Faculty of Law office.
Explore Related Events and Opportunities in the Faculty of Law
Enhance your experience by attending the Faculty’s upcoming mediation workshops and seminars. These events provide additional learning opportunities and help build a comprehensive understanding of the mediation landscape in Turkey.
