Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): faster, private paths to resolution

ADR—mediation and arbitration—can resolve disputes without the delay, publicity, and cost of a full trial. It preserves relationships, keeps sensitive information confidential, and empowers parties to craft practical solutions that courts may not offer.

  • Move quickly with structured negotiations led by experienced neutrals.
  • Protect privacy—most ADR proceedings and outcomes remain confidential.
  • Control cost and scope with tailored rules, limited discovery, and defined timelines.
  • Enforce outcomes—mediated settlements are contracts; arbitration awards can be binding and enforceable.
Explore ADR for Your Case Call 720-499-0000
Civil Litigation & Dispute Resolution Denver Metro & Castle Rock • Same-day response when possible
Neutral mediator guiding two business teams through a structured negotiation

Mediation vs. Arbitration—what’s the difference?

Both methods use a neutral third party, but offer different levels of control and enforceability. We help you choose the right forum based on goals, leverage, and contract terms.

Mediation

  • Facilitated negotiation—voluntary, party-driven outcomes
  • Non-binding unless the parties sign a settlement agreement
  • Efficient: half-day or full-day sessions are common
  • Protects relationships and creative problem-solving

Arbitration

  • Private adjudication—neutral(s) decide the case
  • Usually binding with limited grounds for appeal
  • More limited discovery vs. court; faster decisions
  • Rules can be customized by agreement or provider

How we help you choose

We assess the merits, your appetite for risk, contract clauses, and timing. Then we propose a practical ADR path that maximizes leverage and keeps costs in check.

See Our Process

Want a neutral primer? The Legal Information Institute offers plain-language overviews of ADR at law.cornell.edu .

Parties and counsel reviewing a term sheet during mediation

When ADR works best

ADR shines when speed, confidentiality, and business continuity matter. It’s especially effective where the parties must keep working together or where complex facts benefit from expert neutrals.

  • Business disputes between partners, vendors, or franchisors/franchisees
  • Matters with sensitive IP, pricing, or customer data that require confidentiality
  • Multi-party conflicts where a phased negotiation can unlock settlement
  • Contract cases with ADR clauses requiring mediation or arbitration
  • Disputes where efficient resolution preserves time and cash for operations

The ADR process—clear steps, predictable timelines

We guide you from neutral selection to final agreement or award, keeping you informed at every turn.

  1. Intake & goals: Understand facts, leverage, and success criteria.
  2. Neutral selection: Propose mediators/arbitrators with the right subject-matter expertise and style.
  3. Submissions: Prepare concise briefs, exhibits, and damages models tailored to the forum rules.
  4. Session: Joint sessions and caucuses in mediation; hearings and testimony in arbitration.
  5. Resolution: Term sheet/settlement agreement (mediation) or written award (arbitration).
  6. Enforcement & follow‑through: File and enforce agreements/awards as needed; implement business changes.

Curious how matters flow at our firm? Visit Our Process .

Arbitration hearing room with documents, a neutral's notes, and a clock indicating timely resolution

Why choose Tactical Lawyers for ADR?

  • Cross‑disciplinary insight—contracts, insurance, business, and litigation—to surface leverage others miss.
  • Settlement‑first mindset with trial‑ready preparation to strengthen your position.
  • Clear timelines and communication—know what to expect before every session.
  • Local presence in Castle Rock and the Denver Metro with growing state coverage.
Meet Our Lawyers Civil Litigation Overview
Placeholder for bar admissions logo Placeholder for mediation/arbitration provider affiliation logo Placeholder for professional association logo Placeholder for local/state bar section logo

ADR FAQs

Quick answers to help you decide whether mediation or arbitration is right for your matter.

Can ADR occur before filing suit?
Yes—pre‑suit mediation often saves time and cost. It can preserve business relationships and help parties test settlement ranges early.
Who pays for ADR?
Fees are typically split or allocated by agreement or provider rules. We outline expected costs up front and propose cost‑efficient options.
Can I appeal an arbitration decision?
Grounds for appeal are limited and defined by statute or rules. We evaluate any post‑award remedies and enforcement strategy case‑by‑case.
Is ADR confidential?
Generally yes. Mediation communications are often protected, and arbitration proceedings are private unless a court filing is required to enforce an award. We advise on confidentiality terms for your matter.
Can we require ADR if the contract doesn’t mention it?
Sometimes. Parties can agree to mediate or arbitrate even without a clause. If one side resists, we assess strategic options and the court’s willingness to order mediation.
How long does mediation take?
Many disputes resolve in a single half‑day or full‑day session, with follow‑up calls if needed. We propose realistic timelines after reviewing the issues and evidence.
Request an ADR Strategy Call Explore Civil Litigation Options

Ready to resolve your dispute—without the courtroom drag?

Share your goals. We’ll map the right ADR forum, outline timelines and costs, and guide you from session prep to enforceable resolution.

Request an ADR Strategy Call Call 720-499-0000

Page last updated: September 12, 2025