Introduction – What is ADR?
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)is the broad term given to a range of options designed to settle disputes without going through a full court or tribunal hearing.
Instead of waiting for a hearing date, attending pre-trial hearings, before eventually being in front of a judge to decide the outcome, ADR options such as Mediation, Arbitration, Early Neutral Evaluation, or a Private FDR may be a much more pragmatic, private, cost-effective, flexible and quicker way to reach a solution.
ADR, also known as Non-Court Dispute Resolution (NCDR), generally takes one of the following formats:
- Mediation involves a neutral mediator helping the parties reach their own agreement.
- Arbitration is a private process where the arbitrator makes a binding decision.
- Early Neutral Evaluation gives parties an expert opinion on the strengths and weaknesses of their case.
- Private FDRs provide a judge-like view in financial disputes, often leading to settlement without further litigation.
ADR is flexible. Hearings and meetings can take place in person, at our Chambers, or online. Some resolution processes end with a binding decision, others simply help the parties narrow down the issues in dispute, enabling them to agree common ground. What they all share is a focus on efficiency, flexibility, speed, privacy and practical outcomes.
For more information on ADR and the best option for your dispute, please contact our specialist team for a no obligation and confidential discussion about your dispute and the options available.