What is ADR?

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) refers to any means of settling disputes outside of the courtroom and typically includes mediation, arbitration, early neutral evaluation and conciliation. ADR is not the ‘first-step’ in litigation; it is a real alternative providing an invaluable tool for the swift and cost-effective closure of a case.

In the UK and Europe the terms ADR and mediation are used interchangeably. Mediation is now widely recognised as the leading ADR process and is the core specialism of ADR Group.

“Discourage litigation. Persuade neighbours to compromise whenever you can. Point out to them how the nominal winner is often the real loser – in fees, expenses, and a waste of time.”

                          ABRAHAM LINCOLN, NOTES FOR A LAW LECTURE, JULY 1, 1850

Abraham Lincoln’s statement illustrates that for many years there has been a desire for an alternative to court based litigation. However it was not until the 1960s when techniques were developed and introduced in the USA , it was at this point  that ADR techniques subsequently gained momentum through industrial disputes, small claims and family disputes in order to relieve court congestion.

Although a small number of individual lawyers had been interested in and were practicing mediation in Britain for some years, it was only in the late 1980s when the first British based ADR company – ADR Group - was formed. Since then, ADR Group has developed into a national organisation covering civil, commercial and family disciplines. Recognised by the Civil Mediation Council as an Accredited Mediation Provider, our mission is to continue to play a key role in the further development of ADR services in the UK and Europe.