Alternative Dispute Resolution - OvalOptions, Wheat Ridge, CO
A costly, time-consuming trial is not the only way to resolve a legal or civil dispute. In fact, when it comes to developing a reasonable and enduring solution to a conflict, the people most qualified to do so are the parties directly involved; they understand what is in their own needs and interests. Many people are now wisely taking more control of their lives by settling their disputes outside of the courtroom. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a refreshing, mindful way of coming to an affordable, fair settlement peacefully so that everyone involved can move on and begin the next chapter of their lives.
Call: (720) 220-8683
Alternative Dispute Resolution FAQs
What is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)?
Simply put, ADR is any voluntary, confidential method of external conflict management that settles disputes without litigation. If you are looking to avoid the expensive, time-consuming and confrontational hassle of the court system, you should strongly consider one of the four common types of ADR.
What are the Four Types of ADR?
The four common types of ADR are mediation, arbitration, negotiation, and collaborative law. Each type has the same goal in mind, to resolve disputes without litigation, however, there are some differences that each member of the party should take into consideration beforehand.
Mediation is when a neutral third party (mediator) steps in to facilitate the whole resolution process through means of specialized discussion. By allowing each member of the party to fully explore their feelings, differences, and grievances mediators are able to navigate participants to an agreed-upon voluntary, non-binding solution. Mediators do not have the power to impose any resolution.
Arbitration is fairly similar to mediation, however, it is a more formal process in which the parties involved agree to give the neutral third party (the arbitrator) the power to serve as a judge. This arbitrator will listen to each side present relevant evidence in the case and from there will make a legally binding decision on the resolution of the dispute.
Negotiation is when the parties involved in a conflict or dispute (or their representatives) reach a settlement between themselves without a neutral third party by using all the tools available to alternative dispute resolution.
Collaborative Law is also similar to mediation, however, each participant has an attorney who not only will help facilitate the resolution process but can also provide legal advice. This process costs significantly more than the other types of ADR, but it is still considerably less than actual litigation.
Is ADR legally binding?
Because mediators have no actual decision-making powers, mediation is not legally binding until all participants sign legal documentation indicating the resolution. The actual mediation process is more about coming down to a mutual agreement.
Arbitration, however, is final and legally binding in the same way as a court will hand down judgment.
Is Alternative Dispute resolution effective?
Not only is ADR effective when it comes to saving people from the nightmares of prolonged litigation and the exorbitant fees that come along with it, but it can also increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the justice system which can already be bogged down with heavy caseloads. The speediness of settlements and the offer of greater control when it comes to resolving disputes is also incredibly appealing.
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Types of Mediation
Styles, models, groups
Areas of Mediation
Family, Civil, Small Business, Government
What to Expect in Mediation
Procedures, Steps, Participation, Outcomes
Mediators
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