The future of alternative dispute resolution

If 2020 proved anything, it proved that the world rapidly changes. As Americans, we learn to adapt to those changes and make the most of our current situations. The same is true for our legal system because we have to adjust to ensure that justice still serves.

Due to the recent global crisis, lawyers, mediators and arbitrators rely more on technology to manage disputes and help people find the right resolutions for their circumstances.

But what does that mean for the parties?

Now, technology allows parties to settle their disputes out of the courtroom and on their computers through online dispute resolution (ODR). ODR is similar to mediation or arbitration because it’s an alternative dispute resolution process where both parties meet with a third party and develop a solution through the third party.

There are several advantages to ODR, including:

• Convenience – Parties do not have to leave the comforts of their homes and could develop a schedule that works for everyone involved.
• Low costs – ODR is relatively cheaper than going to court and settling a dispute in front of the judge.
• The ability for dispute containment – The conflict could be minimized and settled instead of publicizing through a trial.

Although ODR is a relatively new practice, many arbitrators and meditators are working through technology due to the national circumstances. Many legal professionals are using ODR to protect the rights of each part while innovating the alternative dispute resolution process.

There is a strong argument that more disputes may find resolutions through ODR far into the future, but it depends on if courts see success between parties through these ODR sessions.