ADR Solicitors
Litigation is never a pleasant experience for those who are involved in the process. For that reason Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is an extremely important part of any litigation process, as it can assist the parties to resolve their dispute without the cost of a lengthy trial, and may repair relationships between the parties.
Our expert litigation team are well versed in all areas of ADR, and will actively guide you through the process, so that you can understand what your options are, what offers to make, and what offers to accept. They will also be able to advise you during a formal mediation process, guiding you every step of the way.
Whether you are an individual in a dispute with your neighbour, or an company attempting to renew your commercial lease, we are able to assist in attempting to resolve your dispute without the cost and stress of lengthy proceedings.
How can we help you today?
Negotiation
It is not always necessary to engage in a formal process to attempt some form of ADR. At any time in the litigation process, an offer of settlement can be made by telephone or in correspondence to your opponent.
Our team are experienced in drafting the necessary correspondence, or having those challenging conversations, to ensure that the strength of your position is conveyed and utilised to obtain an early resolution, on terms that you are happy with.
Mediation
Mediation is a more formal process, utilising a third party to assist the parties to reach a settlement on a day set aside specifically for the process.
Our team are well versed in attending such mediation, and can explain to you what will happen on the day, and assist you in conveying your position to the mediator, and assessing any offers made by your opponent.
We can also ensure that the mediation occurs in a setting your are comfortable with, particulars where the parties may no longer be on speaking terms, and therefore wish to have no contact with each other on the day.
Adjudication
Adjudication is not suitable for every matter, but our team will be able to advise as to whether this is a process which can be utilised in your particular instance. With an independent third party determining the dispute within 28 days of instruction, this can be a quick and cost effective was to resolve the dispute.
The decision is as binding as a court order, and therefore provides certainty and brings the proceedings to an end.
Expert Determination
Similar to an adjudication process, expert determination can be utilised in more technical matters, such as Boundary Disputes or Rent Reviews, to determine the dispute without the need for court proceedings.
The parties agree to be bound by the decision of the expert, and therefore the decision is again determinative of the proceedings. This process can result in significant costs savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) refers to methods of resolving disputes without going to court. The most common types include mediation, arbitration, and private FDRs (Financial Dispute Resolution hearings). ADR aims to help parties reach an agreement faster, more confidentially, and at a lower cost than traditional litigation.
In mediation , a neutral mediator helps the parties negotiate and reach a voluntary settlement — the outcome is not legally binding unless both sides agree to it. In arbitration , an independent arbitrator acts like a private judge and makes a binding decision that both parties must follow. Your solicitor will advise which option best suits your situation.
Mediation involves a trained, impartial mediator who facilitates discussions between the parties to identify common ground and possible solutions. It’s flexible, confidential, and can often preserve business or family relationships that might otherwise break down through litigation.
A private FDR (Financial Dispute Resolution) hearing is a confidential settlement meeting used mainly in family or financial disputes. It allows both parties to negotiate under the guidance of an experienced barrister or judge in a private setting — helping achieve a fair resolution without the delay of court proceedings.
ADR is suitable when both sides are willing to discuss a settlement or when the costs, stress, and time involved in litigation would outweigh the benefits. Many courts now expect parties to explore ADR before issuing formal proceedings.
The cost of mediation varies depending on the complexity of the dispute, the mediator’s experience, and the number of sessions required. Mediation is generally far more cost-effective than court proceedings, and costs are usually shared between the parties. Your mediation solicitor can provide a clear estimate at the outset.
Mediation itself is not automatically binding — but any agreement reached can be recorded in a legally binding settlement document or consent order. Arbitration decisions, however, are binding and enforceable in court under the Arbitration Act 1996.
ADR offers several advantages, including: ● Lower costs and quicker outcomes ● Confidential discussions rather than public hearings ● Greater flexibility and control over the process ● Preservation of commercial or personal relationships ● Reduced stress and disruption
Yes. Your solicitor can attend the mediation or arbitration sessions with you, prepare the necessary documents, and ensure that any agreement reached is legally sound and properly recorded.
Yes. Our ADR law firm provides mediation, arbitration, and private FDR services for clients across Essex, London and Cornwall and throughout the UK. Whether you’re dealing with a business, property, or family dispute, our solicitors can guide you through a faster and more cooperative route to resolution.
OUR CLIENTS SAY…
“Lorraine provided quick and thorough advice on a potentially complicated property matter. She explained everything very clearly and enabled me to feel confident in my options and decision.”
Penelope
OUR OFFICES
Located in the heart of London, Essex & Cornwall
Paul Robinson Solicitors is a thriving independent law firm committed to providing exceptional service to clients nationwide, with offices situated throughout London, Essex and Cornwall.
Established in 1983, the firm has steadily expanded over the past 45 years, offering an extensive range of legal services to both personal and commercial clients. The team of highly experienced and skilled solicitors specialises in various fields and is dedicated to providing an outstanding level of service to achieve positive outcomes for their clients. The firm’s cutting-edge technology and efficient systems, together with its support and managerial staff, ensure maximum efficiency, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness.
