Objectives, Meaning and Benefits of Alternative Dispute Resolution System (ADR)

Introduction:

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) system is the method through which legal disputes are resolved outside the court. This system is more fast, economical and flexible, which helps the parties get quick and amicable solution.

1. Meaning of ADR

Alternative Dispute Resolution System is a legal mechanism in which other methods are used instead of the traditional process of courts. It includes processes like Mediation, Conciliation, Arbitration, and Lok Adalat.

The purpose of the ADR system is to reduce the increasing burden on the courts and resolve disputes quickly. It helps the parties save time and money, so that both the parties get a satisfactory solution.

2. Objectives of ADR
   The main objectives of the alternative dispute resolution system are as follows:
3. Fast and efficient justice – Disputes are resolved in less time through ADR as compared to the long court process.
4. Reducing the burden on courts – Helps in reducing the number of pending cases in the judiciary.
5. Low cost and affordable justice – ADR processes are more affordable than traditional litigation.
6. Promoting mutual understanding and harmony – This system gives priority to a compromise solution that satisfies both parties.
7. Ensuring confidentiality – Cases are heard publicly in courts, while ADR processes remain confidential.
8. Flexibility and convenience – In this, the parties get the facility to choose the time and place.
9. Maintaining social harmony – The ADR system reduces tension and conflict in the society, thereby maintaining cordial relations. ____________________________
10. Types of ADR
    The following are the main types of alternative dispute resolution systems:
11. Arbitration: In this, a neutral arbitrator decides the dispute, which is binding on the parties.
12. Mediation: A neutral mediator facilitates dialogue between the parties and helps them reach a mutual agreement.
13. Conciliation: In this, a conciliator helps to resolve the dispute amicably, but his decision is not binding.
14. Lok Adalat: This is an alternative justice system in which disputes are resolved amicably, and the decisions taken here are final and binding.
15. Negotiation: In this, the parties reach a solution through mutual negotiation, in which no neutral person is involved. ____________________________
16. Advantages of ADR
    (1) Saving time
    Cases remain pending for years in traditional courts, whereas through ADR, disputes can be resolved in less time.
    (2) Low cost
    A large amount of money is spent in fighting cases in courts, whereas the ADR system is less expensive.
    (3) Reducing the burden of courts
    The ADR system helps in reducing the burden of increasing cases on the courts.
    (4) Flexible process
    There is no strict process in this and the parties have the freedom to choose the time and place.
    (5) Maintaining mutual relations
    Personal and business relationships can be affected due to disputes in courts, whereas in ADR, an attempt is made to find a solution through mutual consent.
    (6) Confidentiality is maintained
    In the ADR process, confidentiality of negotiations and agreements is maintained, due to which the image and reputation of the parties is not affected.
    (7) Fairness and Neutrality
    The ADR system is fair and neutral, providing equal opportunity to all parties.

5. Conclusion
   The alternative dispute resolution system is an important part of judicial reforms. It makes the justice process simple, fast and economical. The increasing use of the ADR system is proving to be helpful in increasing the efficiency of the judiciary and maintaining harmony in the society. Therefore, it should be encouraged more in the future so that people can get timely and equitable solutions.