James Holbrook

James Holbrook is a Clinical Professor at the S.J. Quinney College of Law, University of Utah, and holds the title of Professor Emeritus. He specializes in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), legal education, and international law. Holbrook has mediated over 3,000 disputes, taught ADR globally, and contributed to rule-of-law initiatives in Iraq and Afghanistan. His career includes roles as a U.S. Attorney, federal court clerk, and military service in Vietnam (Bronze Star recipient).

Education:

• B.A., Grinnell College (1966), Phi Beta Kappa, Woodrow Wilson Fellow
• M.A., Indiana University (1968), NSF Fellow
• J.D., University of Utah (1974), Articles Editor, Journal of Contemporary Law

Research & Awards: Holbrook’s work emphasizes ADR in healthcare, international legal frameworks, and legal pedagogy. He has received the Peacekeeper Award (2011, 2015), Amicus Curiae Award (2016), and an Honorary Doctorate (2018). His 2024 Alumnus of the Year Award and the Wagner/Holbrook Presidential Chair highlight his enduring impact on legal education.

Leadership: Served on the Advisory Board of the Veterans Support Center (2011) and Board of Directors of the National Center for Veterans Studies (2010). Designed rule-of-law programs for Afghan prosecutors (2008) and led the Global Justice Program in Iraq (2009).