Which term best describes a form of conflict resolution used instead of litigation in many countries?

Which term best describes a form of conflict resolution used instead of litigation in many countries?

• A. Litigation
• B. Mediation
• C. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
• D. Collective bargaining

Answer: (C)

Resolving disputes without going to court is the idea being tested. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is the broad term used for methods used instead of litigation in many countries. ADR covers several approaches, such as negotiation, mediation, and arbitration, chosen to reach a resolution outside the formal court system. The appeal of ADR lies in often being faster, cheaper, and more private than going through courts, with more flexibility in how a resolution is reached. Mediation is one specific technique within ADR where a neutral third party helps the disputing sides craft a voluntary agreement. Arbitration is another ADR method where a neutral decision-maker issues a binding ruling. In contrast, litigation means taking a dispute to court, which ADR specifically aims to avoid when possible. Collective bargaining is about labor negotiations between a union and an employer, not a general dispute-resolution framework, so it fits differently from ADR.

Resolving disputes without going to court is the idea being tested. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is the broad term used for methods used instead of litigation in many countries. ADR covers several approaches, such as negotiation, mediation, and arbitration, chosen to reach a resolution outside the formal court system. The appeal of ADR lies in often being faster, cheaper, and more private than going through courts, with more flexibility in how a resolution is reached. Mediation is one specific technique within ADR where a neutral third party helps the disputing sides craft a voluntary agreement. Arbitration is another ADR method where a neutral decision-maker issues a binding ruling. In contrast, litigation means taking a dispute to court, which ADR specifically aims to avoid when possible. Collective bargaining is about labor negotiations between a union and an employer, not a general dispute-resolution framework, so it fits differently from ADR.