Skilled Mediation & Arbitration Lawyers Advocating for Clients at ADR Proceedings
As the costs of civil litigation have increased dramatically over the years, and the traditional legal system has become overloaded (leading to long delays in bringing matters to a conclusion), individuals and businesses are continuously looking for alternative methods to achieve a more efficient and cost-effective solution to their disputes. Alternative Dispute Resolution, or “ADR”, provides just such an alternative.
An important distinction is that 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.
The Benefits of Mediation & Arbitration
There are a number of benefits to resolving a matter through ADR methods rather than proceeding to litigation, including:
- It brings closure to the parties’ dispute;
- The process is confidential;
- It may help to preserve relationships;
- It offers a greater degree of control to the parties;
- It offers flexibility to the parties, in terms of venue, methodology and scheduling;
- It promotes joint problem solving;
- It saves money;
- It saves time; and
- It can be conducted virtually.
What is the Difference Between Mediation and Arbitration?
In mediation, the parties retain the services of a trained mediator to help facilitate discussions and come to a mutually acceptable resolution to their dispute. The mediator does not act as a decision-maker, but rather as a facilitator, which can be especially helpful to keep discussions productive and maintain focus on the issues at hand.
Arbitration, on the other hand, results in a legally binding decision imposed by a trained arbitrator. Arbitration allows for flexibility to the parties to choose their arbitrator and determine how the process will work.
Both mediation and arbitration can be carried out in person or through remote technology, allowing flexibility for parties who may be located far apart geographically. They also offer increased privacy in contrast to litigation, which can be particularly useful in sensitive matters, or issues involving confidential information.
In-House Mediator & Arbitrator Services facilitated by a Chartered Mediator and Deputy Judge
Ian Stauffer, a partner of our firm, is one of Ottawa’s most respected and experienced mediators. Ian is recognized by the ADR Institute of Canada with the designation of ‘Chartered Mediator’. His peers approved him for his place in the Canadian Academy of Distinguished Neutrals. He has mediated over 2,000 civil disputes ranging from personal disputes between neighbours to multi-million-dollar lawsuits among institutional litigants. Ian is known as a prepared, patient and persistent Mediator who is fair, effective and extremely dedicated to resolving the most difficult cases.
Ian also sits as an arbitrator. He has honed his skills in this area, greatly in part due to the over 20 years he has spent as Deputy Judge in Small Claims Court.
To check Ian’s availability for mediation, please refer to the calendar which can be found here.
Ormond Murphy is a recognized, senior lawyer with over 40 years’ experience. Ormond has been called upon by parties involved in contested Wills and Estate matters.
OUR ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAWYERS
*Designates an Associate Practicing Individually – Not a Member of the Tierney Stauffer LLP Partnership.
Contact the ADR Lawyers, Mediators & Arbitrators at Tierney Stauffer LLP in Ottawa, Kingston & Cornwall
Contact the lawyers at Tierney Stauffer LLP if you would like to explore your options to pursue a matter through ADR or require the services of a professional mediator or arbitrator. Our firm has a vast amount of experience representing clients in ADR and we offer highly experienced professional mediation and arbitration services as well. Call us at 1-888-799-8057 or contact us online to discuss your matter with an experienced lawyer.