is a means of settling disputes
and claims outside of court
encouraged by CIVIL
PROCEDURE RULES
often best to
resolve certain
issues out of court
saves time, money and avoids deterioration of relationships
ARBITRATION
arguably one of
the more formal
forms of ADR
involved a third party making a
judgement and then a decision on how to
settle the dispute and both parties are
bound to it and by it
STRENGTHS
less formal than litigation
less intimidating
usually no publicity
WEAKNESES
underused
lack of bargaining power
no legal aid
MEDIATION
involves a third part who will act like
a 'ref' or a 'go between' passing info
between both parties
FAMILY LAW ACT
actively encourages divorcing couple
to use this before court to settle
matters
STRENGTHS
time saver
money saver also
legally binding if both agree
see both sides
WEAKNESSES
increase on being seen as compulsory
try and enforce it - against a.6
dispute may go to court anyway
CONCILIATION
third party has a more active role
suggesting grounds for comprimise or
basis for a settlement
STRENGTHS
money and time saver
quick resolution
completely private
WEAKNESSES
difficult to enforce
ficult to agree
not legally binding
NEGOTIATION
the largest form of ADR,
involving two parties
discussing their problem(s)
with one another to find a
suitable solution
probably the cheapest and least formal
method, avoiding stress and hassle
can involve solicitors acting on behalf of their
clients – no third party is involved
STRENGTHS
private
money saver
time saver
WEAKNESSES
could escalate issue
not bidning
not formal
Tribunals are another form of ADR, despite being regarded as
specialist courts. They were set up to give the public a means of
resolving disputes regarding their social rights and various other
areas such as employment law.
Therefore it can be said that there are
numerous forms of ADR that encourage people
to avoid the courts – thus relieve congestion.