There has been an uptick in the use of alternative dispute
resolution (ADR) methods like arbitration and mediation in
commercial disputes over the last few years, a trend catalyzed by
COVID-19. Senior associate Rachael Saab sat down with Lexpert to discuss this trend.
In her experience, parties on both sides of a dispute like being
able to resolve disputes within a set timeline that corresponds
better to commercial reality.
"The use of ADR generally produces a resolution more
quickly than using a court system that can be backlogged,"
Rachael said.
Rachael told Lexpert that she's seeing more
mandatory arbitration clauses built into contracts as an
agreed-upon way of settling any potential disputes before they
happen, even though the arbitrator's decision is generally
final, with few avenues of appeal or review.