Most legal cases don't actually go all the way to a trial. Instead, cases are settled through mediation or collaboration, or decided in an arbitration -- almost always for a much lower cost than continuing to fight. Learn about all three of these options for resolving conflict and make educated decisions about your case.
Get good results at your mediation by keeping these basic tenets in mind.
Mediation is much less formal than going to court, but the conflict resolution process does involve distinct stages designed to lead to a mutually beneficial compromise. Here's what to expect.
Most mediations don't require an attorney, but there are some situations in which you may want to consult a lawyer.
Disputes can be expensive to resolve once the lawyers get involved, making mediation an attractive option, particularly given the availability of free or low-cost services.
Despite the growing use of arbitration, many people don't know what arbitration is or how it works. Learn the basics about arbitration here.
If you’re considering arbitration as an alternative to litigation, it pays to learn the pros and cons of arbitration.
Arbitration is the most commonly used method of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), and you'll find an arbitration clause in the fine print of all kinds of contracts.
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At Nolo, we prioritize quality and transparency because we know how important reliable legal information is to our readers. Our information is meticulously researched, regularly updated, and written in plain English by our experienced writers and editors. Learn more about our editorial standards.