What is ADR...

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is an efficient means of resolving disputes.  When litigants or potential litigants utilize ADR it avoids expensive and time consuming trials; when individuals, groups, or nations use ADR it avoids civil strife, economic hardship, or even war. 

The most common forms of ADR at Redlands Arbitration and Mediation Services, Inc. are mediation and arbitration.

Arbitrations take various shapes and forms.  Some arbitrations are governed by the American Arbitration Association, while others are governed by the California Rules of Court and the California Civil Code.  Some arbitrations are required by contract between the parties, some of these include arbitration agreements between a healthcare provider and a patient, sometimes between parties to a real estate contract, and sometimes a contract is between an insurance company and its insured.

Some arbitrations are binding while others are not.  Non-binding arbitrations have been utilized by the courts since 1978 and are governed by the California Rules of Court.  Generally, these arbitrations are somewhat informal and if either party does not like the Arbitrator's award, then the dissatisfied party simply informs the court by an articulated process and the litigation continues in that case.  Occasionally, these judicial arbitrations assist the parties in evaluating the strength and weaknesses of their case and can lead to resolution. 

Binding Arbitrations are much more formal than judicial arbitrations, but still remain more cost effective than civil litigation.  As discussed above, some binding arbitrations are mandated by contract and on other occasions parties may simply decide to resolve their conflict by means of binding arbitration.

Mediation is a voluntary process where a skilled mediator discusses the case with the parties and explores the possibility of settlement.  The mediator facilitates the negotiation process between the parties so the parties can reach a solution to the problem.

The ADR process also incorporates the use of the ADR specialist as a hearing officer, discovery referee, or a special master.  When used in this capacity the ADR specialist will hear evidence and make determinations on legal or factual issues if the parties are involved in the litigation process or administrative law arena.