The term alternative dispute resolution (ADR) means any procedure, agreed to by the parties of a dispute, in which they use the services of a neutral party to assist them in reaching agreement and avoiding litigation. Types of ADR include arbitration, mediation, and negotiation, which can also be combined to create hybrid processes.  

ADR provides a mechanism for the parties to have their disputes resolved outside the judicial process.  Through ADR the parties may work toward a voluntary, consensual agreement, or have someone other than a judge decide the case.  In addition to serving as a potential means of avoiding the expense, delay, and uncertainty associated with traditional litigation, ADR also is intended as a vehicle for improving communication between the parties. ADR provides a forum for creative solutions to disputes that better meet the needs of the parties. 

Our panelists will cover the pros and cons of the various types of ADR that we see frequently in the insurance industry.  They all bring different perspectives to each type of process.

Panelists:
Bill Goldsmith, Associate General Counsel, Reinsurance, AIG
Peter Scarpato, Arbitrator/Mediator/Negotiations Consultant
Teresa Snider, Partner, Porter Wright Morris Arthur
Grant Donkervoet, VP, Analytics Lead, Swiss Re