Advantages and Disadvantages of Dispute Resolution Processes
Advantages and Disadvantages of Dispute Resolution Processes
In order to select the most appropriate process, it is important to understand and appreciate the advantages and
disadvantages of the various dispute resolution processes.
In the outline of advantages and disadvantages of dispute resolution processes provided below, a simplified
spectrum of processes from consensual, informal (negotiation and mediation) to formal, adjudicative (arbitration
and trial) is used:
ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES
Speedy and informal resolution of disputes; generally less stressful Can be used as stalling tactic
May improve communication between parties thereby preserving or enhancing Do not produce legal precedents
relationships between parties
Flexibility: resolutions can be tailored to the needs and underlying concerns of Parties may have limited bargaining
the parties and can address legal and non-legal issues as well as providing for authority
remedies unavailable through adjudicative processes
Legal and/or other standards of fairness can be used in crafting agreements Little or no check on power imbalances
between the parties
Increased satisfaction and compliance with settlements when parties have directly Disclosure of information and
participated in crafting agreements truthfulness of communications depend
on good faith of parties--mediation
cannot compel good faith
May assist in clarifying and narrowing issues, and fostering climate of openness, In negotiation -- lack of neutral may
co-operation, and collaboration, even if a settlement is not reached reduce chance of reaching agreement,
particularly in complex disputes or those
involving multi-parties
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Risk-free: communications are without prejudice and if no agreement reached, May not adequately protect parties' legal
parties can pursue other options rights
In mediation – parties may select mediator with substantive knowledge In mediation -- strong-willed or
incompetent mediator can exercise too
much control
ARBITRATION
ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES
Arbitrator can be selected on basis of substantive knowledge Time and cost affected by poor co-operation and poor
process design
Formality compels proper behaviour and may minimize bad Confidentiality not suitable for some disputes
faith
Rules of procedure can be tailored to the process Outcome uncertain in binding arbitration
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TRIAL
ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES
Expensive process
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