Alternative Dispute Resolution

Alternative dispute resolution is a term used to describe procedures other than law suits to resolve legal disagreements.  Arbitration and Mediation are the most common forms of alternative dispute resolution.  Alternative dispute resolution offers opposing parties the opportunity to solve their differences outside the courtroom rather than having a judge or jury decide  the matter for them.  It is popular with many clients, because it may offer them a faster, cheaper, and more private result than litigation. 

In many instances, mediation is required before a case can go to trial.  The opposing parties and their counsel meet with an impartial mediator who attempts to bring the opposing sides to a settlement of their dispute.  There is no requirement that the parties reach an agreement; only that the parties participate in the mediation in good faith.

In contrast to mediation, arbitration is similar to a trial in that all sides present their evidence to an impartial third party in a hearing and the arbitrator makes a decision that is binding on all parties.

Our attorneys regularly participate in alternative dispute resolutions such as negotiation, arbitration, and mediation.  In addition, Woodrow H. Griffin is a certified mediator and provides mediation services to attorneys throughout Western North Carolina.