Welcome to HPC Dispute Resolution. A Brighter Future Starts Here.

Why Are People Talking About Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Instead of Going To Court?

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a term given to procedures for settling disputes without recourse to litigation, such as mediation, adjudication or negotiation. These methods tend to be more practically focused on resolution – finding a workable solution or compromise that everyone can live with. They also tend to be less time-consuming and less expensive.

Why Now?

With the Courts likely to be over-burdened with cases following the COVID-19 Pandemic, ADR represents a sensible path to dispute resolution for many individuals and organizations who simply want to find a way forward.

I’ve Heard About Mediation. How Does Mediation Work?

Mediation is typically comprised of participants coming together at a mutually agreed venue – whether it be a physical location or now, in a suitable online video-enabled forum. A Mediator will speak with the participants in a mixture of open and closed sessions (where closed sessions are in confidence). In the course of open and closed sessions, very typically, a Mediator is able to help facilitate a solution, which the participants can embrace.

The HPC Adjudication Option

For many individuals and organizations, the issues of clarity and closure are uppermost. In addition to facilitating discussion and negotiation between the participants as mediator, we also offer the option of adjudication in the event that participants either cannot agree in the time available or they elect this option to be sure of closure. You can find more information about Rapid-Track Adjudication here.

Can ADR Be Done Online?

Especially in light of COVID-19 travel and social distancing restrictions, mediation can be offered via video using common video platforms that everyone can access, such as Zoom. In other words, disputes can be resolved without anyone having to leave their home. We use a state-of-the-art platform specifically desgined for the management of mediations, including fully-encrypted communications. No technical experience is necessary – it is very simple and intuitive to use. The only requirement is a reliable internet connection.

What Does It Cost?

We offer both simple fixed time and fixed fee pricing – and also bespoke package options in more complex cases – bringing this service well within reach for everyone. We can either act as your adviser and represent you in a mediation – OR – act as the neutral mediator for all participants.

Is It Mandatory?

In some (though not yet all) dispute settings including some Court hearings, mediation is required. This reflects the great benefits in both time and costs of finding a satisfactory, working solution to a dispute versus months or years of expensive Court proceedings. Where mediation is an option, it is recommended since it may save a great deal of Court time and costs if the matter goes to trial.

Do You Carry Insurance?

Yes. David holds $1 million in professional liability insurance, which may be increased on a matter-to-matter basis – based on the facts of a given matter. All HPC Faculty members maintain professional liability insurance for no less than $1 million.

Is Mediation Confidential?

Mediation is conducted confidentially and “without prejudice”. In the event that resolution is not found, the discussions and negotiations held within the mediation remain confidential and cannot be referenced in any Court proceedings.