What are some alternatives to court?

Answer 1

Mediation and arbitration are some alternatives to court. Mediation--A process by which two people having a dispute agree to work together to settle the dispute with the help of an impartial 3rd party mediator. The process is usually inexpensive and has about an 80% success rate in civil matters. It is also confidential. Mediation is available through your local dispute resolution center--see the phone book. Also, from personal experience as a mediator, I can assure you that it will ensure that the parties to the dispute can remain civil to each other. Arbitration--A process by which the parties agree to plead their cases to an attorney or retired judge instead of in court. This is also inexpensive and saves a great deal of money over a court trial. Arbitration can be binding (cannot be appealed) or non-binding (can be appealed). Arbitration of disputes is usually done by the American Arbitration Association, National Arbitration Forum, or Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services (JAMS). Arbitration sessions are closed to the public, however, any arbitration judgment may be entered into any court having jurisdiction.