The Academy of Court-Appointed Neutrals (ACAN) is committed to advancing the profession of court-appointed neutrals (CANs) and expanding opportunities for talented professionals to serve the administration of justice. Court-appointed neutrals play a critical role in helping courts manage complex matters and may serve under a variety of titles, including special master, referee, monitor, claims administrator, settlement neutral, and more.
As part of this commitment, ACAN’s Incubator Program provides training, mentorship, and professional development for aspiring and emerging court-appointed neutrals. Offered every odd year, the program is designed to help participants deepen their understanding of the profession, develop practical skills, and build meaningful relationships within the field.
The Incubator Program combines substantive education with candid discussions about the realities of becoming a court-appointed neutral. Participants have the opportunity to learn from experienced judges and seasoned CANs while engaging with peers who share an interest in this growing and evolving profession.
A hallmark of the program is mentorship. ACAN seeks to foster meaningful mentor-mentee relationships that support participants as they explore opportunities, strengthen their skills, and navigate the pathway toward serving as court-appointed neutrals.
While the Incubator Program is intended to prepare participants for success, ACAN recognizes that entering the profession can be challenging. Participation in the program does not guarantee appointment opportunities, but it is designed to provide valuable education, guidance, and connections for those interested in pursuing this work.
The 2027 ACAN Incubator Program will kick off with an in-person training program on March 1-2, 2027, in Charleston, South Carolina, immediately preceding the 2027 ACAN Annual Meeting, March 3-5.
The in-person kickoff will bring the 2027 cohort together for training, discussion, and opportunities to learn from experienced court-appointed neutrals and members of the judiciary. Following the kickoff, the Incubator Program will continue throughout 2027 with additional virtual training sessions and mentorship designed to support participants as they develop their skills, build professional relationships, and explore opportunities within the profession.
Additional information regarding applications, eligibility requirements, program fees, scholarships, and the full 2027 program schedule will be announced soon.