Consider Your San Diego Business Litigation Options: Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Alternative Dispute Resolution refers to the various means of settling disputes outside of the courtroom and not undergoing traditional litigation. ADR methods are designed to resolve disputes in less formal, less expensive, and less time consuming ways than full blown litigation. The lawyers at the Watkins Firm not only understand the value in ADR, but we also respect the process.
Alternative Dispute Resolution includes early neutral evaluation, mediation, and arbitration.
Early Neutral Evaluation is designed to enhance direct communication between the parties and provides an assessment of the merits of the case by a neutral expert.
Mediation consists of an unbiased, trained mediator hearing the parties' arguments and attempting to offer a mutually acceptable compromise. Mediators often succeed by facilitating calm, reasoned discussion between the parties and offering them an unbiased view of the merits of each side's case.
Arbitration is similar to a formal trial in that the parties present their respective arguments to a neutral arbitrator who makes a decision, theoretically predicting how a court would decide. Arbitration is typically quicker, less formal, and less costly than traditional litigation, but parties do not enjoy all of the procedural protections that they would have in a court of law.
All forms of Alternative Dispute Resolution are very popular for resolving civil and business disputes in San Diego. When you hire a business lawyer in San Diego, it is important to know that you have options. The Watkins Firm has over 20 years of experience representing clients in the ADR proceedings and would be happy to talk to you about alternative resolutions to your legal issues. Please call the office at 858/535-1511 for a free consultation or send us an email at: info@watkinsfirm.com
