Alternative Dispute Resolution: Saving Time and Money
Why arbitration and mediation are becoming the preferred methods for resolving complex commercial disputes.
Beyond the Courtroom
Litigation is slow, public, and expensive. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) offers a private, efficient path to resolution.
Arbitration vs. Litigation
Arbitration allows parties to choose industry-expert adjudicators and keep proceedings confidential—a key advantage for IP and technology disputes. However, rights of appeal are limited, making the drafting of the arbitration clause critical.
Mediation as a First Step
Multi-tiered dispute resolution clauses, requiring mediation before arbitration, are becoming standard. Mediation preserves business relationships by focusing on interest-based solutions rather than rights-based adjudication.
Online Dispute Resolution (ODR)
For lower-value claims, ODR platforms are streamlining the process. We are seeing more contracts incorporate ODR mechanisms for efficient resolution of consumer and supply chain disputes.