What Is Alternative Dispute Resolution?

As the name implies, it’s one of several methods used to settle legal disagreements as an alternative to going to trial.

Where Does Mediation Fit In?

The three main forms of alternative dispute resolution are negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. Generally, mediation is more formal than simple negotiations and less formal than arbitration. Mediations can be voluntary or court-ordered. In fact, parties may choose to mediate before or after filing a lawsuit.

Who Runs the Mediation?

The mediator is an impartial third party. In other words, the mediator is not one of the parties involved in the disagreement.

During the mediation, the mediator meets with the parties and their attorneys. Typically, everyone meets together for the initial session, then the parties each split out into separate rooms. The mediator moves between the groups facilitating an agreement. Because he or she has no ‘dog in the hunt,’ it’s easier to view the parties’ concerns objectively and unemotionally.

How Does a Mediation End?

Mediation typically is not legally binding except as agreed by the parties. Unlike a judge, the mediator does not hand down a decision or prepare an order telling the parties what to do.

As for the resolution of the disagreement, mediation may lead to a settlement agreement. If no agreement is reached, however, the parties may continue to litigate their case, schedule another mediation session, or move on to arbitration.

Why Use Mediation to Solve a Legal Problem?

By avoiding a prolonged court battle, you can save money and time. Wouldn’t you rather spend your time enjoying life instead of sitting in a courtroom?

Attorney Bruce Adams is an Alabama attorney who knows how to listen to his client’s legal concerns and provide actionable advice. He also offers mediation services. Please contact Bruce at 256-237-3339 to set up an appointment. Our office is located in Anniston, Alabama, but we assist clients in surrounding Calhoun, Cleburne, Etowah, and St. Clair Counties.

The post Taking the Mystery Out of Mediation appeared first on Bruce Adams.

What Is Personal Injury?

Well, it may be defined as an injury to:

• Body,
• Mind, or
• Emotions.

For example, you may receive physical injuries during a car accident, dog bite, or fall. The person who caused the injury may be held liable. This means they may have to compensate you for their actions or neglect.

Personal injury claims often involve:

• Car accidents,
• Defective or dangerous products or services,
• Assault and battery,
• Medical malpractice, and
• Defamation in the form of libel or slander.

If you have suffered some type of damage, talk to an attorney to see if you have a personal injury claim.

What Can an Experienced Alabama Lawyer Do for Me?

Unlike the average person, an attorney has a deep knowledge of the law. More importantly, a lawyer will know how the law might relate to your claim. But how will that help as you try to get compensation for your injuries?

• Unbiased Analysis. Before pursuing a claim, it’s important to understand the strengths and weaknesses of your case. An attorney who has handled personal injury lawsuits has a pretty good idea of your claim’s value.
• Investigation and Record Requests. Attorneys usually know how to conduct an investigation or who they can hire to investigate for them. Depending on your claim, you may need medical records, police records, and information about person who caused your injuries or damages.
• Filing Suit, Going to Trial, and Settling Claims. To get a personal injury lawsuit started, you have to which documents you need to prepare and where to file them. Then, you may go to trial unless you reach a settlement. Preparing for trial is not easy and is best left to experienced attorneys.
• Offering Alternative Dispute Resolution. Your lawyer may suggest you try arbitration or mediation as an alternative to a prolonged court case. Either method can help you settle your legal case without going to court. However, both methods have pitfalls and should only be attempted by experienced lawyers.

Get the Most Out of Your Personal Injury Claim

Hire an experienced Alabama attorney like Bruce Adams.

He knows how to handle his clients’ legal questions and concerns. Please contact Bruce at 256-237-3339 to set up an appointment or use our convenient Contact Form. Our office is located in Anniston, Alabama, but we assist clients in surrounding Calhoun, Cleburne, Etowah, and St. Clair Counties.

The post Hire an Experienced Alabama Lawyer for Your Personal Injury Claim appeared first on Bruce Adams.