Mediation and Arbitration

"Alternative dispute resolution is generally cheaper and faster than litigation."

We represent clients in arbitration, mediation and other forums for alternative dispute resolution ("ADR").  Our services include counselling our clients about when to seek alternate dispute resolution in lieu of traditional litigation plus acting as an advocate for business owners, contractors, suppliers, employees and others in mediation and arbitration.  We also have attorneys with experience as mediators and arbitrators available to act as neutrals in the ADR process.

Mediation is a process in which a neutral third party, the mediator, attempts to facilitate an agreed upon resolution of a dispute.  Unlike arbitration, the mediator may not make a binding decision; any decision must be that of the parties and only the parties may decide upon the terms of any settlement.  Mediation has proved itself to be a very effective and cost saving way to resolve business and other types of disputes.

During arbitration, the neutral (arbitrator) hears both sides of a dispute during an informal hearing before determining who wins and who loses. An arbitrator is not a judge, but the decision of an arbitrator or panel of arbitrators is binding on the parties. ADR is not intended to replace the court system. Instead it offers an alternative through which businesses and individuals can resolve conflicts.