Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) refers to several different
processes for resolving disputes.  In one form of ADR called
mediation, a third party, called a neutral (also known as a
mediator), helps facilitate two or more other parties in the
resolution of their dispute.  

In the mediation process, the mediator discusses the ground
rules for the mediation.  Each party then separately tells the
mediator what issues they are having with the other party and,
if they are aware of a potential resolution, discusses what they
want to get out of the mediation.  The mediator listens
carefully to each party and may ask some clarifying questions
in order to arrive at suggested topics for further discussion.  
The mediator will then help the parties discuss the issues in a
controlled setting and will help them arrive at a mutually
satisfactory resolution.  The resolution can then be
documented in writing and the writing can act as a legally
enforceable document if the parties so desire.

There are a variety of benefits to the ADR process.  First, it
lightens the load of our court systems.  As a matter of fact,
many courts require mediations prior to any court action on
the merits of the case.  Well over 90% of civil cases filed in the
Los Angeles Superior Court system settle by mediation.

Second, it is a private, confidential process.   All parties sign a
confidentiality agreement preventing them from discussing
what was said in the mediation session(s).  

Third, ADR preserves relationships.  In many instances,
individuals in conflict are in a situation that requires them to
interact with each other often.  For example, the parties may
be neighbors, co-workers or have mutual friends that requires
their paths to cross.  In ADR, all of the issues involved in the
conflict are brought into the open, including the underlying
conflicts which may actually be the driving force for the
conflict.   By discussing and understanding these issues, the
parties are typically able to come to an amicable agreement
which will allow them to continue to interact with each other if
desired or required.

Fourth, ADR is typically less costly than the litigation process.  
Parties can pay a much smaller fee to a mediator, compared to
the fee of an attorney for a long and drawn out court battle.

Please contact us to help you settle your dispute.   We charge
a reasonable hourly rate and are well-prepared to help you.  
Jason J. Schwartz is a Los Angeles County Bar Association
certified mediator.  He also volunteers his time as a member of
the ADR civil pro-bono panel of the Los Angeles Superior
Court where he mediates personal injury cases.  Additionally,
he volunteers at the Los Angeles County Bar Association
Dispute Resolution Services in mediating a variety of cases,
including neighbor-neighbor, landlord-tenant, and
condo-association-owner disputes.  
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Alternative Dispute Resolution Services
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