How does the ADR process actually work?
Generally, the ADR Specialist is contacted by one or more parties in a dispute. They discuss the issue/s involved to determine whether the case is appropriate for ADR and how the issue should be addressed. If the initiating person decides that a facilitated discussion with the other person could be helpful, the second person is contacted. This person decides whether participation would be productive and acceptable. If the parties and the ADR Specialist agree that ADR is desired and appropriate, they identify the ADR process(es) to be used, designate an ADR neutral or a process for selecting one, and provide a date by which ADR will be completed. The parties may agree on the terms of a confidentiality agreement. The parties proceed using the agreed-upon ADR process until the case is resolved or one or both of the parties opts out. If a resolution is reached, it is usually recorded in a written agreement. If no resolution is reached, the parties may choose to use another process.
