The Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) course that I am teaching this term is a part of the University’s Legal Studies program. The program has three concentrations, including Dispute Resolution. The term “Alternative Dispute Resolution” is criticized at times for being inaccurate: if the vast majority of litigated cases are resolved in some fashion before a case is tried and judgment is imposed, how can the processes used in those many, many cases be described as “alternative”? Critics would prefer to see “Dispute Resolution” — with an understanding that this term covers the full range of options available to resolve conflicts, from mediation to litigation.
Posted in ADR: Dispute Resolution Processes, Monday, January 31st, 2011
