This Reference Guide is designed to provide Justice counsel with practical information about Dispute Resolution (“DR”) processes and to allow counsel to remain current with developments in the rapidly evolving field of DR. It contains information directed at counsel with varying levels of familiarity with and practical experience in DR.
The term “Dispute Resolution” (“DR”) rather than “Alternative Dispute Resolution” (“ADR”), is used by the Project to reflect the philosophy that processes such as mediation, arbitration and mini-trial, together with litigation, form a broad spectrum of dispute resolution options. Non-litigious DR processes are therefore perceived as complements to litigation, rather than strictly as alternatives. Our particular focus is on non-litigious DR processes, as the Civil Litigation Branch is responsible for providing legal advice and representation in relation to litigated disputes.
Law Practice Management Division (LPMD) will continue to update and amend the Reference Guide. As new DR processes develop and become more widely used in Canada, individual practice modules in respect of those processes will be added to the Reference Guide.
At all times, DRS is available to provide further information and advice concerning any of the information contained in the Reference Guide. LPMD can be reached at LPMD-DGPD@justice.gc.ca.