I’ve Heard That In ‘Alternative Dispute Resolution’ A Neutral Third Party Is Involved?
Yes, that is correct. Technically, the word ‘neutral’ is generally used to describe that the ‘third party’ has no vested interest in the outcome of the resolution and is not directly involved in the disagreement. The term ‘neutral’ is sometimes inappropriately used to replicate the ‘judge’ in court room. However, in alternative dispute resolution, the third party has no ‘decision making authority’. The third party assists as the ‘process guide’ steering the parties from disagreement to resolution. The third party is similar to the conductor of an orchestra. The conductor does not play the instruments. The conductor directs. The third party directs, conducts and guides the dispute resolution process using his/her skills as a facilitator, negotiator, counselor, agreement documenter and sometimes adding in a dose of common sense. Only in arbitration and binding mediation is the third party given permission to make a ‘decision’ as a court room judge would do. Also, it should be mentioned t
