ADR has the ability to start the process of working out disagreement and differences without waiting for the often-overburdened civil courts to hear the case. Two commonly used methods of ADR are Arbitration and Mediation. They decide the issues to be resolved, the possible awards, and how the process will proceed. Unlike a court hearing, arbitration can be less formal. Decisions reached by the arbitrators are usually final and not reviewed further by the courts.
Mediation involves a neutral person helping two or more parties to reach a voluntary settlement.
The Mediator's role is to advise the parties and offer suggestions on how to resolve the differences. Both parties involved have an active role and ultimately decide the final outcome of the dispute with the assistance of the Mediator. Privacy Arbitration, Mediation, and other forms of ADR are not processes open to the public, unlike court disputes. The hearings and awards are completely private and confidential and are not disclosed. Virtually every type of dispute that can be litigated can also employ alternative dispute resolution methods.