ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND ITS TYPES
Alternative Dispute Resolution is a method of dispute resolution that is non-adversarial, i.e. working together considerately to reach the best declaration for everyone. Alternative Dispute Resolution can be involved in sinking the burden of litigation on courts, even as delivering a well-formed and gratifying understanding for the parties concerned. It provides the occasion to “enlarge the pie” all the way through imaginative, mutual bargaining, and fulfill the interests pouring their demands.
Alternative Dispute Resolution is commonly classified into the following types:
Arbitration:
The dispute is submitted to an arbitral tribunal which makes a decision (an “award”) on the dispute that is mostly binding on the parties. It is less formal than a trial, and the rules of evidence are often relaxed. Generally, there is no right to appeal an arbitrator’s decision. Except for some interim measures, there is very little scope for judicial intervention in the arbitration process.
Conciliation:
A non-binding procedure in which an impartial third party, the conciliator, assists the parties to a dispute in reaching a mutually satisfactory agreed settlement of the dispute. Conciliation is a less formal form of arbitration. The parties are free to accept or reject the recommendations of the conciliator. However, if both parties accept the settlement document drawn by the conciliator, it shall be final and binding on both.
Mediation:
In mediation, an impartial person called a “mediator” helps the parties try to reach a mutually acceptable resolution of the dispute.The mediator does not decide the dispute but helps the parties communicate so they can try to settle the dispute themselves.Mediation leaves control of the outcome with the parties.
Negotiation:
A non-binding procedure in which discussions between the parties are initiated without the intervention of any third party with the object of arriving at a negotiated settlement to the dispute..It is the most common method of alternative dispute resolution. Negotiation occurs in business, non-profit organizations, government branches, legal proceedings, among nations and in personal situations such as marriage, divorce, parenting, and everyday life.
Advantages of Alternative Dispute Resolution
- The resolution of disputes takes place usually in private – helping maintain confidentiality.
- It is more viable, economic, and efficient.
- Procedural flexibility saves valuable time and money and the absence of stress of a conventional trial.
- This often results in creative solutions, sustainable outcomes, greater satisfaction, and improved relationships.
- The possibility of ensuring that specialized expertise is available on the tribunal in the person of the arbitrator, mediator, conciliator or neutral adviser.
- Further, it offers greater direct control over the outcome. Personal relationships may also suffer less.