Frequently Asked Questions

What is ADR?

ADR stands for “Alternative Dispute Resolution,” and refers generally to efforts other than court litigation for resolving disputes and settling cases.

What is ADR.ms?

ADR.ms describes the mediation, arbitration and other alternative dispute resolution services offered by Taggart, Rimes & Wiggins, PLLC, as effective and efficient substitutes for litigation.

What is Mediation?

  • Mediation is an informal, non-binding effort to resolve disputes or settle cases, aided by trained, neutral individuals who assist opposing parties in working out a settlement. All aspects of this process are generally controlled by agreement of the parties in conjunction with the mediator.
  • Sometimes, as in the case of court-ordered mediation in civil matters, a mediator is chosen by a presiding judge in a case. Even then, the mediator does not have the authority to render a decision, and only assists in trying to guide the parties to arrive at a jointly satisfactory resolution.

What is Arbitration?

  • Similar to a trial, but typically simpler and shorter, arbitration is a form of dispute resolution decided in a private process by which the disputing parties agree that one or several individuals are authorized to render a decision on the matter.
  • After receiving and reviewing evidence, hearing testimony and arguments by both parties, the arbitrator’s decision is rendered.
  • An arbitrator has the authority by contract between the parties to resolve their dispute.