Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

What is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)?

Most civil disputes are resolved without filing a lawsuit, and most civil lawsuits are resolved without a trial. The courts and others offer a variety of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) processes to help people resolve disputes without a trial. ADR is usually less formal, less expensive, and less time-consuming than a trial. Learn more about the types of ADR processes that are available and the political benefits of using ADR by clicking on the links below.

ADR Types & Benefits

Types of ADR

Mediation, arbitration, settlement conferences, neutral evaluation, learn more about the most common types of ADR for civil cases, and watch videos demonstrating these processes.

Benefits of ADR

Using ADR may have a variety of benefits, depending on the type of ADR and the circumstances of the particular case. Learn more about the benefits of ADR.

Additional Resources

Resolve Your Case Video Series

Watch videos on how to resolve specific types of cases through the normal court process and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes.

Court ADR Programs

Learn more about superior court's ADR programs for civil cases.

Mediation Week

The Judicial Council and State Bar of California recognize the third week of March as Mediation week. During this week, many organizations hold events to inform the public about the availability and benefits of mediation programs, and to acknowledge the mediators and others who make those programs successful.

View ADR Events

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and is a way of resolving disputes between two or more parties.