Alternative dispute resolution or the voluntary resolution of disputes refers to conciliation, mediation or arbitration. A person may refer a matter for resolution by mediation, conciliation or arbitration as an alternative to going to court. The Tribunal serves as a facilitator in the resolution of disputes between the parties. The success of ADR process depends on the parties reaching a mutually beneficial agreement. The Tribunal’s services are free. The issue of costs for either party depends on the agreement by parties.
If in the course of an alternative dispute resolution either party fails to participate in the process in good faith, or if the Companies Tribunal finds that there is no reasonable probability of the parties resolving their disputes through that process, then the Companies Tribunal must issue a certificate in the prescribed form stating that the process has failed. If on the other hand the dispute resolution is successful, an order may be issued and parties may submit it to court to be confirmed as a consent order.
The Companies Tribunal presents and publishes these ADR guidelines are aimed at simplifying the process of applying for ADR.