California Alternative Dispute Resolution Forms, aka ADR Forms: If you file a civil lawsuit, you must include the appropriate ADR Information Packet with the complaint when serving the defendant. Cross complainants must also serve the ADR Information Packet on any new parties named to the action. While you are here, take a moment to check our FLAT RATE pricing for Process Service and give us a CALL or EMAIL with any questions!
What Are The Advantages Of Using ADR?
- Faster Litigation can take years to complete, but ADR usually takes weeks or months
- Cheaper Parties can save on attorneys fees and litigation costs
- More control and flexibility Parties choose the ADR process appropriate for their case
- Cooperative and less stressful In mediation, parties cooperate to find a mutually agreeable resolution
- Preserve relationships. A mediator can help you effectively communicate your interests and point of view to the other side. This is an important benefit when you want to preserve a relationship.
What Is The Disadvantage Of Using ADR?
- You may go to court anyway. If you cannot resolve your dispute using ADR, you may still have to spend time and money resolving your lawsuit through the courts.
What ADR Options Are Available?
- Mediation A neutral person (mediator) helps the parties communicate, clarify facts, identify legal issues, explore settlement options, and agree on a solution acceptable to all sides.
- Court Mediation Program: Mediators do not charge fees for the first two hours of mediation. If parties need more time, they must pay the mediators regular fees. Some mediators ask for a deposit before mediation starts, which is subject to a refund for unused time.
- Private Mediation: This is mediation where the parties pay the mediators regular fees and may choose a mediator outside the court’s panel.
- Arbitration A neutral person (the arbitrator) hears arguments and evidence from each side and then decides the outcome of the dispute. Arbitration is less formal than a trial, and the rules of evidence are often relaxed. Arbitration is effective when the parties want someone other than themselves to decide the outcome.
- Judicial Arbitration Program (non-binding): The judge can refer a case or the parties can agree to use judicial arbitration. The parties select an arbitrator from a list provided by the court. If the parties cannot agree on an arbitrator, one will be assigned by the court. There is no fee for the arbitrator. The arbitrator must send the decision (award of the arbitrator) to the court. The parties have the right to reject the award and proceed to trial.
- Private Arbitration (binding and non-binding) occurs when parties involved in a dispute either agree or are contractually obligated. This option takes place outside of the courts and is normally binding, meaning the arbitrator’s decision is final.
California Alternative Dispute Resolution Forms listed by County in California.
Locate the appropriate ADR form for your county below. Right-click and select “save as” to download a copy to your computer or mobile device.
Contra Costa Superior Court – Limited Case
Contra Costa Superior Court – Unlimited Case