If you had recently had a dispute with someone, taking them to court can prove very expensive, as well as stressful and time-consuming. People often think that court is the only option for dealing with a dispute, although there are many other ways that they can be resolved.
If you have recently experienced a dispute with either a neighbour, a family member, spouse, landlord or member of the public, always think of other solutions rather than taking it to court. Other alternatives, also known as ADR (alternative dispute resolutions) could be;
Mediation
- Conciliation-
This is the action of stopping someone from being angry. A conciliator will arrange to meet with both parties separately as well as together, in an attempt to resolve any issues. Both parties will be assisted in trying to come to a mutual agreement.
- Adjudication-
Another way of trying to resolve a dispute, without lengthy court cases. An arbitrator service is usually free.
- Arbitration-
Involving an outsider who is impartial to the dispute, trying to reach a decision based on evidence given by both parties. Both parties need to agree in advance that they will abide by the outcome reached.
- Getting advice from ombudsmen-
A service that people may use if they have had a financial dispute with either a bank, insurance company or energy company. If you have made a complaint direct to the company and haven’t had a response, or aren’t happy with the outcome, the ombudsmen may be your next best option.
- Neutral evaluation-
Although not many people use this service, it can be effective and stop people from having to go to court to have a case resolved. Both parties can voluntarily sit and discuss their dispute with a neutral third party.
Reasons for Alternative dispute resolutions;
Alternative dispute resolutions will not stop you from using the courts in all situations, but there are many advantages to them;
- Cost you less money
- Save you extra stresses
- Provide many outcomes
- Help you to come to a mutual agreement
- Be confidential
- Help to preserve your relationship
Reasons when ADR may not be suitable;
Although alternative dispute resolutions can hold many benefits, they do hold some risks and costs. As well as not always being suitable such as;
- If an issue requires urgent court actions, for example if you were about to lose your home
- In situations of domestic abuse
- The other party may not be willing to take part in other resolutions
- The outcome required needs to be legally bound
There are many legal teams who can understand and work alongside you with disagreements. Many legal firms have a highly experienced team of solicitors available to help you find a solution to your dispute, working with both parties to ensure that disagreements don’t escalate further.
You may be having a dispute with your landlord over the recovery of rent arrears. Why not get in contact with JWK solicitors to see how they can help you, without having to pay out to go to court. Legal teams can talk with you about the different ways they can help to settle a dispute whether it be through negotiating or mediation.
Nancy James