Alternative Dispute Resolution
What is Alternative Dispute Resolution?
Alternative dispute resolution can refer to any process that is used to resolve a dispute/conflict without having to enter a courtroom. Two or more people?whether spouses, business partners, family members, or other parties?may turn to alternative dispute resolution to resolve their disputes in a less costly, less formal, and less time-consuming way. The forms of alternative dispute resolution differ on who retains control and may be mandated/binding or completely voluntary.
Forms of Alternative Dispute Resolution
Four of the most common forms of alternative dispute resolution are mediation, arbitration, neutral evaluation, and settlement conferences. Arbitration is a legally-binding process, and a third party listens to all sides of a dispute and then passes down judgment that must be followed. On the other hand, mediation and the other forms of alternative dispute resolution are typically voluntary and may not be binding. In these forms of alternative dispute resolution, the parties involved in the dispute retain the power to make all decisions.
Benefits of Mediation: A Form of Alternative Dispute Resolution
In recent years, mediation has become one of the most popular forms of alternative dispute resolution. From divorce mediation to disputes among business partners, mediation can be extremely beneficial for all involved. Mediation is less costly, more private, less time consuming, and typically less stressful than litigation or mandated forms of alternative dispute resolution. For a safe, confidential way to work toward an agreeable resolution to your dispute, talk to a mediator about your options.