Rule 12.2 Alternative Dispute Resolution

A judge can require the people in a case to try to work out their dispute outside of a regular trial. This is called alternative dispute resolution, or ADR. It includes things like mediation, where a neutral person helps both sides talk through the problem and try to reach an agreement.

The judge can order this on their own, or one side in the case can ask for it by filing a motion. Either way, the final decision is up to the court. If the judge orders ADR, they can also set specific rules or conditions for how it must be carried out.

For people involved in a case, this means you might be asked or required to sit down and try to settle your dispute before going through a full trial. This process can save time and money, and it often gives both sides more control over the outcome than waiting for a judge or jury to decide.