Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) helps people find solutions to their legal disputes without going to trial. The Court offers a variety of ADR resources and programs.

View all ADR Programs

Download ADR Information Package

Alternative Dispute Resolution Avenues to Justice

I Want to Settle My Case

Learn about how to settle your case

The court offers a number of programs to assist with settling your case out of court. Select a type of case from the dropdown to view what options are available to you.

Why ADR?

Save time and money

Utilizing ADR methods is often faster than going to trial and parties can save on court costs, attorney's fees, and other charges.

Reduce stress and protect privacy

ADR is conducted outside of a courtroom setting and does not involve a public trial.

Help parties maintain control

For many types of ADR, parties may choose their ADR process and provider.

Types of ADR

Negotiation

Parties may talk with each other about resolving their case at any time. If the parties have attorneys, they will negotiate for their clients.

Mediation

Mediation may be appropriate for parties who want to work out a solution but need help from a neutral third party. A mediator can help the parties reach a mutually acceptable resolution.

Settlement Conferences

A judge or qualified settlement officer assists the parties in evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the case and in negotiating a settlement. In some cases, voluntary settlement conferences may be requested by the parties.

Arbitration

Less formal than a trial, parties present evidence and arguments to an arbitrator who decides the outcome. In "binding" arbitration, the arbitrator's decision is final; there is no right to trial. In "nonbinding" arbitration, any party can request a trial after the arbitrator's decision.