• What does Alternative Dispute Resolution mean?
• What are the advantages of ADR processes over going to court?
• How much does it cost and what does the fee include?
• What rules apply to ADR processes?
• What types of disputes may be resolved using ADR?
• What steps are involved?
• Do I need to be represented by a lawyer?

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) encompasses a range of options for parties in a dispute. It may be as simple and non-binding as a discussion between the parties or it may be more complex, involving a neutral decision maker whose decision is final and binding.

The following is a description of those processes from least formal and non-binding to more formal and binding.

Negotiation - This is generally a discussion between two parties in an attempt to resolve a dispute. It may be very informal and involve only those who are directly affected by the dispute, or the parties may wish to involve a trusted friend or advisor.

Mediation - This is a voluntary process involving a neutral "mediator" whose role is to help the parties negotiate.

Conciliation - This is a dispute resolution process which is similar to mediation. However, in conciliation, the parties do not deal directly with each other; rather, they rely on the conciliator to carry information from one party to the other. Through this process, the parties may reach an understanding and agreement on the issues in dispute.

Early Neutral Evaluation - This process involves a neutral decision maker who has some knowledge about the area in which the parties' problem has arisen. The parties submit a summary of their position to the neutral decision maker along with the evidence on which each party would expect to rely on if the matter were to proceed to arbitration or to court. The neutral decision maker then provides the parties with a non-binding assessment of the result they could expect to achieve if the matter did proceed to a hearing.

Arbitration - This is a process by which the parties agree to hire a private decision maker. They may have agreed to do so as a term of their contract, or they may agree to do so after a dispute has arisen.

The main advantages of using experienced arbitrators and mediators are as follows:

• ADR processes are flexible in timing and location.
• ADR processes are private and confidential.
• ADR processes are generally less expensive.
• ADR processes are generally faster.
• If mediation is used, the parties control the result.

Our fees are charged on a day or half day basis. Fees include mediator/arbitrator fees, local phone calls and mailing costs. They do not include the cost of interpreters (if required), legal assistance, witness costs, transcription services, or room rental costs.

Unless the parties otherwise agree, our mediators and arbitrators use the BCAMI rules.

Our ADR specialists are capable of resolving almost any dispute which the parties agree to have resolved by a neutral third party. We are experienced in mediating and arbitrating contractual disputes as well as disputes involving the statutory rights and obligations of the parties, negligence, and the assessment of damages. For example, we have arbitrated motor vehicle, landlord/tenant, contract, partnership and condominium disputes.

• If you and the other party agree to use our services please contact us, sending a copy of your email to the other party;
• One of us will respond to begin the process and advise you of the next steps including costs;

• After mediation, the mediator may draft a memorandum of understanding to reflect the agreement reached by the parties;
• After arbitration, the arbitrator will provide the parties with a written decision with reasons.

You can be represented by a person of your choice, including a lawyer, but that is not required.