Discover how court-sponsored ADR can help resolve cases efficiently and effectively. Panelists from the NYS Courts will explore mediation and other ADR options for a variety of civil matters—including personal injury, contract disputes, employment issues, matrimonial cases, and more.

Ideal for both plaintiff and defense attorneys, this session offers practical strategies to leverage ADR for faster, cost-effective outcomes.

The course delves into the practical and strategic aspects of utilizing court-sponsored ADR programs. Presenters clarify the distinctions between various processes, such as mediation, settlement conferences, and neutral evaluation, while explaining the specific rules and authority governing these referrals, including Part 160 and Part 146. Through detailed discussions of initiatives like the NYC Citywide ADR Part 20 and the Martin P. Violante ADR Program in Western New York, attorneys will learn how these confidential, cost-free services can resolve complex civil matters, preserve relationships, and alleviate court backlogs.

Key learning outcomes include:

• Differentiating between mediation, settlement conferences, and arbitration to determine which process is best suited for specific case types.
• Navigating the procedural requirements for ADR referrals, including the necessity of settlement authority and the role of insurance adjusters.
• Understanding the strict confidentiality protocols that protect disclosures made during mediation sessions versus settlement conferences.
• Identifying the benefits of early intervention and how parallel ADR tracks can function alongside active litigation without causing delays.
• Strategies for preparing clients for ADR to ensure they feel heard and achieve finality without the emotional and financial toll of a trial.