Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a confidential proceeding in which an objective, neutral third party or parties work to facilitate the resolution of a dispute between parties.

FORMS OF ADR

MEDIATION: The process in which a trained facilitator assists disputing parties in communicating their position on issues and exploring possible solutions.

CONCILIATION: A process in which an intervener attempts to correct, misperceptions, reduce fears and improve communication to an extent permits reasonable discussion to take place and reconciliation to begin.

MODERATED SETTLEMENT CONFERENCE:A procedure which provides parties with a confidential, non-binding, objective case evaluation by an impartial, experienced third party or panel.

ARBITRATION: A procedure in which an impartial third party or panel meets with the parties, listens to a presentation of both the facts and the law, and then renders an award. The parties may agree prior to the trial to the hearing whether or not the decision will be binding.

MINI-TRIAL: A procedure in which opposing counsel present their case to the parties, (the respective decision-makers, with authority to settle the matter) and to a neutral third party. After hearing the cases presented the decision-makers meet, either with or without the neutral advisor to attempt to negotiate a settlement.

SUMMARY JURY TRIAL:A procedure which is normally conducted by the court in the usual manner of a jury trial, except on a more informational basis, where the questioning of jurors and the presentation of evidence are greatly limited. The rules of evidence are relaxed and the jury decision is advisory in nature.