Different Options for Dispute Resolution Flashcards
how is public perception of litigation characterised?
slow + expensive + out of touch judges
where are civil litigation disputes more likely to be resolved now?
lawyers’ offices or via virtual meetings
purpose of the £1B reform programme in courts’ system?
reduce reliance on buildings, face-to-face hearings, paper
ADR methods as alternatives to court proceedings?
arbitration
mediation
negotiation
when should ADR procedures be considered?
at 1st interview w client + reviewed regularly thereafter
status of litigation in relation to ADR?
considered the last resort
what does ADR refer to?
means of settling disputes outside of traditional litigation process
what is negotiation in the context of ADR?
form of ADR where parties + lawyers discuss possible solutions
role of independent 3rd party in ADR?
assist the parties in reaching their own solution w/o imposing one
what does “w/o prejudice” mean in ADR context?
discussions can’t be disclosed if court proceedings follow
how does arbitration differ from litigation in terms of voluntary participation
arbitration is voluntary if an agreement exists, but litigation isn’t
what happens once litigation starts?
neither party can withdraw w/o paying the opponent’s costs
what should a solicitor discuss with the client when a dispute arises?
the availability of ADR
when should ADR not be used?
when it’s obviously inappropriate, eg requiring injunction
when party can’t be trusted to comply w award
when party is unwilling to take part
what does CPR 1998 require re ADR?
parties must consider use of ADR procedures
what happens if party decides not to engage in ADR?
costs penalties may be imposed
What can the court now lawfully do regarding ADR following the case of Churchill v Merthyr Tydfil CBC?
Stay proceedings or order parties to engage in non-court based dispute resolution
What must solicitors confirm to their clients regarding ADR?
They have explained the need to try to settle, options available, and possible costs sanctions
Why is the independence of the third party important in ADR?
It encourages open discussions and reduces aggression between parties
what should be discussed w client re mediation?
availability of mediation as an option
role of mediator in a typical mediation process?
act as a go-b/w + facilitate discussions
main advantages of mediation?
independent 3rd party may help lead parties to settlement
why can mediation be cheaper than arbitration + litigation?
process is quicker
what flexibility does mediation offer to parties involved?
parties may choose procedure to be followed
key benefit of privacy of mediation?
clients aren’t publicly exposed to the circumstances or outcome of the dispute
why is mediation ideal for preserving business relationships?
it allows parties to solve their problems non-confrontationally
what advantage does a 3rd party bring to mediation re settlement terms?
may assist in arriving at realistic + workable terms
what does mediation allow if a client is unhappy with the progress?
client can withdraw at any time
when is mediation not appropriate?
When ruling on point of law or an injunction is required