Types of Alternative Dispute Resolutions

Understanding the Different Types of Alternative Dispute Resolutions

The daunting process of litigation can take a significant toll on individuals and organizations. Often, it comes with a considerable amount of stress, lost time, and high costs. To remedy this, most legal disputes are now resolved through alternative dispute resolutions, which often provide a more satisfactory solution for all parties involved. 

Jay Skelton of SkeltonADR specializes in various forms of alternative dispute resolution to help clients find reasonable and long-lasting solutions to their disagreements. Here are three types of alternative dispute resolutions (ADR) that can be useful in resolving differing legal issues:

1. Mediation

This type of ADR involves a mediator who is an impartial third party. The goal of mediation is to create an atmosphere where both parties can openly discuss the dispute and come to a mutual agreement. The mediator does not make decisions but helps generate alternative solutions to the conflict. Mediation is particularly useful where long-term relationships need to be maintained, such as business partners or co-parents, and where the parties involved may want to minimize the cost associated with litigation.

2. Arbitration

Arbitration is a form of ADR that can be used to resolve disputes between two or more parties. Unlike litigation, which involves a judge making decisions and handing down rulings, arbitration is an informal process in which the parties present their case to an arbitrator, who then makes a final decision. Arbitration allows for quicker resolution than going to court and greater privacy and control over the outcome. Additionally, it can often be less expensive than traditional legal proceedings. It’s important to note that while arbitration may be binding or non-binding depending on the agreement of all parties involved, any resulting decision will still need to be approved by a court before becoming legally enforceable.

3. Transformative Mediation

Transformative mediation is an approach to conflict resolution that seeks to empower the parties involved in a dispute and help them reach a mutually beneficial agreement. This mediation process is based on the idea that, with assistance from a trained mediator, people can work together collaboratively to develop satisfactory solutions for all parties. The transformative approach emphasizes communication, respect, understanding, and problem-solving skills to create win-win outcomes. It also encourages participants to take responsibility for their actions and consider how their behavior affects others. Transformative mediation is particularly useful when dealing with interpersonal disputes or situations involving multiple stakeholders with conflicting interests.

Turn to SkeltonADR, LLC, for your alternative dispute resolution needs in New York and Connecticut.

If you’re tired of arguing and need a resolution but want to avoid litigation, consider alternative dispute resolution. Jay Skeleton of SkeltonADR, LLC in Fairfield County, CT, has decades of experience with alternative dispute resolution to achieve long-lasting, effective results for his NY and CT clients. 

Learn more and schedule a consultation today by filling out a short form or by giving our office a call at 203-351-9111.