Dispute Resoltuion Flashcards
What is arbitration
One of the alternative dispute resolution- a substitute for litigation. A third party is involved who is neutral that will make a decision which is binding.
Is arbitration voluntary ?
Yes
Is litigation voluntary ?
No
What is litigation?
The process of going through legal proceedings to resolve a dispute against one or more parties
Can the parties withdraw once litigation starts
Usually Neither parties can withdraw without paying the opponent’s costs.
What happens if a part refuses to go through ADR
Failure to attempt settlement by ADR may have a significant impact on any subsequent order of costs
What is ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution)?
1) ADR refers to settling disputes outside of traditional litigation.
2) It is a collective term for processes like negotiation, mediation, and arbitration.
3) Litigation is considered the last resort, and clients may face sanctions if they refuse ADR.
What is Negotiation in ADR?
Negotiation is a form of ADR where parties and their lawyers attempt to resolve disputes through discussions, either formally or informally.
What is Mediation in ADR?
1) Mediation involves an independent third party helping the parties reach a solution, but they cannot impose it.
2) It is voluntary unless ordered by the court and happens “without prejudice,” meaning it cannot be used in court if ADR fails.
3) The process is confidential, and if it fails, the court won’t know until after liability and damages are dealt with.
What is the Nature of ADR?
1) Voluntary unless ordered by a court.
2) Parties can withdraw at any time before reaching a settlement.
3) The third party cannot impose a solution (except in arbitration).
4) The court may impose sanctions for failure to engage in ADR
What is Arbitration?
1) Arbitration is a voluntary process where parties agree to resolve disputes through an independent arbitrator, either before or after a dispute arises.
2) The arbitration decision is binding and enforceable.
Arbitration can be agreed to through a
3) contract or once a dispute occurs
How Does Litigation Differ from ADR?
Litigation is not voluntary; once a case is started, withdrawal is usually not possible without paying the other party’s costs.
If ADR fails, the court will impose a solution and enforce it through judgment.
What Happens if a Party Fails to Engage in ADR?
1) Solicitors must discuss ADR options with clients.
2) Failure to engage may result in cost sanctions imposed by the court.
3) The Civil Procedure Rules 1998 require parties to consider ADR seriously.
4) A party that refuses ADR must provide a witness statement explaining why.
What Factors Does the Court Consider in ADR?
The court will consider the nature of the dispute, the merits of the case, previous settlement attempts, cost, and whether ADR has a reasonable chance of success
Failure to engage with ADR can result in a cost penalty.
What Are the Advantages of Mediation?
1) Mediation is cheaper, quicker, and more flexible than arbitration or litigation.
2) It is private, and parties can withdraw at any time.
3) Mediation preserves relationships and allows for creative, non-judicial solutions
Disadvantages of Mediation?
1) Not suitable for disputes involving legal rulings, injunctions, fraud, or misconduct.
2) Lack of formal disclosure may lead to an unjust result.
3) Privacy may be a disadvantage if public vindication is needed.
4) A party may walk away dissatisfied if mediation fails.
Enforcement of Mediation Agreements
1) Agreements made in mediation are not automatically binding, unlike court judgments.
2) If an agreement is reached, the parties enter a contract, and a breach may lead to a lawsuit
What governs civil litigation in England and Wales?
The Civil Procedure Rules 1998.
What do the Civil Procedure Rules dictate?
The procedure to be followed when pursuing a claim through the courts.
What is the aim of the Civil Procedure Rules?
To provide a more user-friendly system for resolving disputes, especially for litigants in person.
How do courts ensure compliance with procedure?
By making directions, setting timetables, and imposing sanctions if necessary.
Where are civil disputes dealt with?
In either the County Court or the High Court.
Who can bring proceedings in a civil court?
Individuals, organisations, or companies.
Who hears most interim applications and trials under £25,000?
District judges in the County Court or High Court.
Who hears trials over £25,000?
Circuit judges in the County Court or High Court judges in the High Court.
What is the role of the court manager?
A senior civil servant who oversees the court office and manages formal documents.
Who serves court documents and enforces court orders?
Bailiffs and High Court enforcement officers.
Why is evidence important in the pre-commencement stage?
confirm the validity of the claim and assess its prospects of success.
What are pre-action protocols?
Rules governing the steps parties should take before commencing a court case, including identifying disputes and sharing information.
What happens if a pre-action protocol is not followed without good reason?
A sanction may be imposed.
How is a civil claim commenced?
By serving a claim form on the defendant along with particulars of the claim.
What must a defendant do if they wish to contest a claim?
File a defence at court and serve it on the claimant.
What happens after a defence is filed?
The court allocates the matter to a track based on the value and complexity of the case.
What must parties disclose during interim matters?
All relevant documents that impact the case, even if they do not assist their own position.
What evidence must parties exchange before trial?
Witness statements, expert reports, and any other evidence they wish to rely on.
What does the judge decide at trial?
Issues of liability, quantum (damages), and costs.
What can a party do if dissatisfied with a judgment?
Appeal all or part of the trial judge’s decision.
What happens if damages or costs are unpaid?
The creditor can apply to the court to enforce the judgment, often involving seizure of the debtor’s belongings.
Why are limitation periods important in civil claims?
To prevent indefinite threats of litigation and ensure evidence remains reliable.