Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Most civil disputes are resolved without filing a lawsuit, and most civil lawsuits are resolved without a trial. The courts and others offer a variety of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) processes to help people resolve disputes without a trial. ADR is usually less formal, less expensive, and less time-consuming than a trial. Learn more about the types of ADR processes that are available and the political benefits of using ADR by clicking on the links below.
ADR Types & Benefits
Types of ADR
Mediation, arbitration, settlement conferences, neutral evaluation, learn more about the most common types of ADR for civil cases, and watch videos demonstrating these processes.
Benefits of ADR
Using ADR may have a variety of benefits, depending on the type of ADR and the circumstances of the particular case. Learn more about the benefits of ADR
Reports & Resources
- Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Civil Cases (August 1999)
- Evaluation of the Early Mediation Pilot Programs (February 2004)