U.S. Virgin Islands — The V.I. Department of Justice recently hosted a multi-day professional development training for staff focused on negotiation and communication skills, held June 22–23 in St. Thomas and June 25–26 in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. The training, developed in partnership with the National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG), brought together staff members for an immersive, hands-on learning experience designed to strengthen practical negotiation strategies, improve decision-making, and enhance communication in professional settings.
Participants engaged in a structured program that combined presentations, interactive exercises, and a multi-party roleplay simulation designed to reflect real-world negotiation dynamics. Sessions focused on core competencies including preparation strategies, interest-based negotiation, decision theory, cognitive bias awareness, emotional intelligence, and effective communication techniques. Throughout the training, staff explored how preparation, risk assessment, and behavioral factors influence outcomes in negotiations. Additional modules emphasized active listening, nonverbal communication, tone, and conflict management as essential components of effective professional practice.
Ari Telisman, Director of Legal Skills Training with the National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG), noted that the on-going program reflects the organization’s broader mission to deliver practical, skills-based training to Attorneys General offices across the country. “NAAG’s mission is to bring training programs to Attorneys General offices nationwide, covering areas such as legal skills, trial advocacy, legal writing, negotiation, leadership and management, as well as subject-specific programming tailored to the needs of each office,” Telisman said. A key feature of the program was an immersive roleplay exercise that challenged participants to apply negotiation principles in complex, evolving scenarios requiring collaboration, adaptability, and strategic thinking. “The participants have been highly engaged, and it has been wonderful to see the exchange of shared experiences throughout the training. We focus on making the training as interactive, engaging, and practical as possible. To achieve that, we incorporate a role-playing scenario that closely mirrors real-life situations government offices may encounter.”
Attorney General Gordon C. Rhea emphasized the Department’s commitment to investing in its workforce and thanked NAAG for its continued partnership. “Investing in the professional development of our staff is an investment in the quality of service we provide to the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands. We are grateful to NAAG for partnering with the DOJ to bring this outstanding training to our attorneys and staff. Programs like this strengthen our workforce, enhance collaboration, and ensure we are equipped with the practical skills needed to effectively serve the Government and the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands,” Attorney General Rhea said.
Chief Deputy Attorney General Ian S.A. Clement said the training was well received by participants and highlighted the value of bringing together professionals from multiple government agencies. “The attorneys who participated found the training extremely valuable and engaging, especially within our Civil Division, where they gained practical and actionable negotiation strategies that will strengthen how we serve the Government of the Virgin Islands. Having representatives from the Office of Collective Bargaining and Property and Procurement join the DOJ also helped foster collaboration and goodwill across agencies, enriching the overall learning experience,” Chief Clement said.
About NAAG
The National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG) is the nonpartisan national forum that empowers and supports the nation’s Attorneys General. NAAG provides a platform for collaboration, training, research, and professional development, enabling Attorneys General and their staff to address complex legal issues and improve the administration of justice. Through programs such as the Negotiation and Communication Skills Training, NAAG strengthens legal capacity across jurisdictions by offering practical, skills-based learning experiences rooted in real-world application.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 30, 2026
Sandra Goomansingh
Media Relations Director
(340) 774-5666 ext. 10105
Email: sandra.goomansingh@doj.vi.gov