Terms Related to Alternative Dispute Resolution

Question 1

Alternative Dispute Process

Answer 1

The term “alternative dispute process” or “alternative dispute resolution,” refers to a method of settling legal disputes other than litigation. Common examples of alternative dispute processes include arbitration and mediation.

Question 2

Arbitration

Answer 2

Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution which requires that a neutral third party, called an arbitrator, render a decision after hearing both parties to a dispute present their respective sides of the dispute. Arbitration can be either voluntary or involuntary.

Question 3

Mediation

Answer 3

Mediation is also a form of alternative dispute resolution, which requires that a neutral third party, called a mediator, assist both parties to a dispute agree to a mutually acceptable resolution. Mediation differs from arbitration in that the mediator has no power to render a decision; an arbitrator has the power to render a decision resolving the dispute.