Mediation / Alternative Dispute Resolution

we are experienced in a variety of ADR methods

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Alternative Dispute Resolution ("ADR") refers to any means of settling disputes outside of the courtroom. ADR typically includes early neutral evaluation, negotiation, conciliation, mediation, and arbitration. Here at Meridian Law, we are experienced in a variety of ADR methods, and we are available to be retained for dispute resolution for both individual parties and attorneys representing clients who might be seeking settlement options outside of trial. 

While the two most common forms of ADR are arbitration and mediation, negotiation in an informal setting can be attempted at any stage of a claim. In order to avoid the substantial costs of litigation, parties may wish to have an informal negotiation session to determine if their issues can be resolved before filing a lawsuit. In the Montana Human Rights setting, informal conciliation is used to attempt resolution before a case is set for the hearings process. There are other circumstances in Montana that ADR is commonly used to address parties' differences, including in family, child, and elder disputes.   

The main advantage of this form of dispute settlement is that it allows the parties themselves to control the process and the solution. It is cost-effective and highly efficient.  

If you, as an individual, are interested in exploring what ADR options you might have available to resolve a dispute, don't hesitate to contact us. If you are an attorney representing a party for whom you believe ADR would be a good option, we would be happy to visit with you about possible retention. Our experience in numerous settlement conferences, conciliations, and informal negotiations could prove to be a valuable asset to your client in possibly resolving their claim without the extensive costs and time involved in litigation.    

Human Rights claims in Montana pose a unique circumstance for alternative dispute resolution. After a discrimination or retaliation claim, arising under the Montana Human Rights Act, is investigated and found to have sufficient validity to move forward, the parties are given the option of participating in an informal conciliation process. Individuals who have filed such claims in Montana often proceed without Legal Counsel in the investigation phase of the claim. While we do not recommend handling these types of claims without an attorney, if you have, thus far, and have now received a "Right to Sue" determination from the Montana Human Rights Bureau, we encourage you to contact us  to assist you in the conciliation process. Having a qualified attorney present during conciliation can have a significant effect upon any settlement or affirmative relief you may obtain. This process is very time-sensitive, so don't hesitate to reach out to our law firm as quickly as possible to represent you.