Dispute Resolution Services (DRS) : DRS Processes

DRS provides all types of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services, including the following:

Mediation
In mediation, a neutral facilitator assists the parties in resolving their disputes. The mediator does not give legal advice to the clients, but does provide information which may assist the parties in understanding their options. The mediator does not make any decisions, but may help generate additional ideas designed to meet their needs and those of other affected persons (such as their children) or entities (such as a family business). The mediator also assists the parties with communication and, if necessary, referees their discussions.
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Private Decision Making
Arbitration, Consensual Special Magistrate (CSM) and Special Master processes are all options within the “adjudicative” or decision-making type of dispute resolution. Essentially the neutral in these processes acts as a private judge. The neutral’s power and the ability of the parties to appeal the neutral’s decision vary depending upon the option chosen.
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Neutral Evaluation
In a neutral evaluation, each party presents their facts and arguments to a neutral third party. The evaluator then provides his or her assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the parties’ positions. The evaluator may also suggest the outcome for each issue. The parties may accept this outcome and settle the case. Or they may use the evaluation as the basis for negotiating a different agreement. The evaluator’s opinion is not binding on the parties.
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Process Selection and Design
At DRS, we can assist our clients and/or their attorneys in selecting the most appropriate ADR process(es) for their case, or in creating their own process. Our goal is to combine your needs with our skills to provide the most cost-effective and personalized resolution.
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Consultation
Chris Leick and other DRS professionals provide hourly consultation services to persons other than DRS clients in order to assist them in solving problems related to a conflict resolution process and/or possible impasse. In this capacity, we serve parties or organizations experiencing conflict, attorneys, other dispute resolution professionals, and experts in other fields.
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Facilitation
Chris Leick and other DRS professionals also serve various groups by designing and facilitating meetings and other communications in situations where conflict management is a concern. Churches, educational institutions, non-profits and small businesses can benefit from such services.
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Case Management
When there are complex facts and subjects, high conflict, or numerous professionals involved, “case management” can be useful. Similarly a case manager can assist when one or more parties are frustrated by delays or perceived lack of cooperation. A case manager acts somewhat like a general contractor or project manager and organizer. Among other duties, s/he sets deadlines, creates and follows up on assignments, and helps the parties select and work with other neutral professionals. This service may be provided whether or not the DRS neutral serves as a mediator in addition to being a case manager.
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