How Much Does ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) Cost in California?

Alternative dispute resolution is a process that allows all parties involved in legal proceedings to solve the dispute before having to go to trial. This option helps save parties time and money that are typically involved in a trial. It also allows parties to work together to reach a favorable outcome for both sides. If you find yourself asking how much does ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) cost in California, there are a variety of factors involved.

Experienced Attorneys in California

Here at Peterson Watts Law Group, LLP, our team of attorneys has almost 70 years of combined legal experience. We have extensive experience working with clients through ADR and are able to explain transparently what the process might involve.

Partner Glenn W. Peterson has been practicing law since 1986 and focuses on business litigation, intellectual property, and franchise disputes. These cases frequently use ADR to resolve disputes. His work has earned recognition in publications like Sacramento Magazine and California Lawyer Magazine.

Partner Richard M. Watts brings extensive experience in commercial real estate and business law. Since graduating from McGeorge School of Law, he has worked on cases involving real estate transactions, lease disputes, and contract litigation, often engaging in ADR as an alternative to trial.

What Is Alternative Dispute Resolution?

In 2023, there were a total of 258,731 court trial cases in California. This number is significantly smaller than the total number of case filings in the state, meaning ADR is a common option for Californians.

ADR can save time and money and is usually less formal than a courtroom trial. California court offers several different types of ADR, with each option offering differing levels of control over the case:

1. Mediation: This can be court-ordered or voluntarily chosen by the parties involved in the case. All parties, along with their attorneys, meet with a neutral person, called a mediator. The mediator helps them talk through the legal problem and try to find a solution they both agree on before having to go to trial. This is a common method used in cases, with most claims being resolved before trial.
2. Arbitration: A neutral person, called an arbitrator, listens to both sides and looks at the facts. Then, the arbitrator makes a decision. Sometimes the decision is final and must be followed (binding), and other times it is just a suggestion (non-binding).
3. Settlement conferences: This is a meeting where a judge helps both sides talk about their disagreement and try to reach an agreement. Sometimes the court requires a settlement conference, and other times the people involved in the case can ask for one. The judge does not make a decision but works with both sides to help them find common ground.

How Much Does Alternative Dispute Resolution Cost in California?

The cost of ADR varies depending on where you live, the provider, and the process chosen. You have the option to choose a private neutral party or a neutral party provided by the court.

At Peterson Watts Law Group, LLP, we provide affordable alternative dispute resolution methods such as arbitration and mediation. Working with us can save you thousands of dollars by choosing this route instead of your case proceeding to litigation. Our experience and skill in this area make this a cost-effective way to resolve your case quickly.

Why Choose Us?

In 2023, California had a total of 4,519,099 filings in superior courts, with most of these cases being solved before going to trial. During all types of ADR, it is vital to hire an alternative dispute resolution lawyer.

Here at Peterson Watts Law Group, LLP, we have extensive experience working on similar cases and understand all the complexities of state and federal law. We are also able to understand tactics the other party’s legal team might use, which can be confusing for clients to navigate alone.

As a team of California residents, we are driven to serve in the legal community and regularly contribute to education and professional development. We also volunteer in local programs such as Food for Thought, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the Sacramento Philharmonic. Our firm believes in donating our time and resources to causes that help our neighbors and communities thrive.

FAQs

Q: What Types of Cases Can Use ADR in California?

A: ADR can be used in many types of civil cases in California. Common examples include business disputes, real estate conflicts, employment issues, contract disagreements, and intellectual property matters. ADR is also available in family law cases. Whether ADR is a good fit depends on how willing each party is to work toward a resolution.

Q: Is Mediation Always Confidential and Voluntary?

A: Under California Evidence Code section 1119, mediation is private and confidential. Whatever is discussed during mediation cannot be used later in court unless all parties agree. Mediation is also voluntary in most cases, meaning both parties must agree to take part. However, some courts may require parties to try mediation before a trial date is set.

Q: What Happens if ADR Does not Resolve the Case?

A: If ADR does not result in an agreement, the case can still move forward in court. The court will be informed that ADR did not result in a settlement, and a trial date may be scheduled. In some cases, parties may try a different ADR method later or return to negotiations with new information.

Q: How Long Does ADR Usually Take?

A: ADR usually takes much less time than going to court. While traditional court cases can take years to resolve, ADR is often completed in weeks or months. Some individual ADR sessions, like mediation, can even be finished in a single day. The exact time it takes depends on how complex the case is and how cooperative both sides are.

Hire an Alternative Dispute Resolution Lawyer from Peterson Watts Law Group, LLP

Peterson Watts Law Group, LLP serves clients throughout California. We know how stressful litigation can be for our clients and want to take care of the legal side of things so you can focus on your well-being during legal proceedings. To speak with our team about your case, contact us today.