Arbitration, ADR & Mediation

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), involves an independent third person or neutral party who tries to help resolve or narrow the areas of conflict. The use of ADR early in a case can result in the more efficient, cost-effective resolution of disputes with greater satisfaction to the parties. Our arbitration attorneys are adept at resolving disputes through ADR. A great majority of the civil cases, including marital dissolutions, personal injury actions, property and contract disputes filed in Minnesota State courts are settled without a trial. Yet, most cases do not settle until after the parties and courts have spent a lot of time, money, and emotional energy. Mediation lawyers can prevent this.

Minnesota courts recognize the effectiveness of ADR as a tool for settling conflicts. In response, the courts provide parties and their attorneys, if represented, with ADR information when they file a civil case. The parties must consider whether to use ADR to help resolve the dispute. Consulting with an arbitration lawyer or mediation attorney can help you determine if ADR is a good fit for your unique legal situation.

Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice describes the procedures for deciding whether to use ADR. The Rule mandates the court provides parties with information on ADR. Parties are required to discuss the use of ADR and address this issue in the informational statement filed with the court. If the parties are unable to make a decision on the use of an ADR process or a neutral, the court may order the parties to any number of ADR alternatives. This does not mean parties are required to settle their differences through ADR. They are required, however, to at least discuss their differences with the neutral and attempt to resolve their differences prior to a trial.