Alternative Dispute Resolution Services in the Bay Area

At ADZ Law, alternative dispute resolution, or ADR, is a core part of our practice. In California, a variety of ADR methods can help parties resolve disputes outside the traditional courtroom process. They are usually less formal than a court proceeding and less expensive and time-consuming than a trial.

Alternative dispute resolution typically gives parties more opportunity to determine when and how their disagreements will be resolved, by providing them more control over the process and the outcome. Creative solutions, not available in a court proceeding or trial, are possible with ADR. In some cases, using ADR may help the parties find win-win solutions that achieve the goals of both through a less adversarial and less hostile process, which can help the parties preserve an amicable relationship.

Mediation

Mediation is a process in which a neutral third-party mediator facilitates discussions between parties who are unable to reach agreement on legal issues. The goal of mediation is to find areas of agreement or compromise that accommodate the interests of both parties.The mediator does not make decisions or impose resolutions, but serves only as a facilitator in the discussions between the parties.

Our ADZ Law attorneys have decades of combined experience and extensive professional mediation training.

Please visit the Mediation Services practice page for details about our services.

Private Judging

In California, a private judge is a licensed attorney who presides over a case by agreement of the parties. The private judge can make all the decisions that a judge sitting in a state court could make but in a setting outside the formal courtroom.

Founding ADZ Law partner and retired San Mateo County Superior Court Commissioner Lauren Zorfas offers private judging services at ADZ Law, providing parties with an advantage over the traditional court system by enabling the resolution of disputes more efficiently and effectively.

Please visit the Private Judging practice page for details about our services.

Collaborative Resolution

Collaborative resolution offers a constructive and cooperative approach to divorce, where a divorcing couple works with a team of trained professionals to find mutually agreeable solutions and settle their case. This team can include attorneys, mental health professionals, financial experts, child specialists, and other relevant professionals.

Unlike traditional divorce and other forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), parties in a collaborative divorce agree not to litigate their matters in court. This commitment fosters a less adversarial environment, significantly reducing the trauma and emotional stress often experienced by families during the divorce process. By focusing on open communication and collaboration, couples can address their needs and concerns more effectively, leading to more satisfactory and sustainable outcomes for everyone involved.

Another significant advantage of the collaborative divorce process is the confidentiality of all communications. Everything discussed and shared during the collaborative sessions is protected and cannot be used as evidence in court if the parties later choose to litigate. This confidentiality encourages honest and open dialogue, allowing both parties to express their thoughts and preferences without fear of legal repercussions.

As a result, the collaborative resolution process not only promotes a more amicable and respectful separation but also helps preserve relationships, particularly when children are involved. By working together in a supportive and confidential setting, couples can achieve a resolution that respects the interests of all family members and lays the foundation for a more positive future.

Our ADZ Law attorneys have substantial experience in the Collaborative Resolution Practice. You can trust ADZ Law to provide the guidance and support you need for a positive and empowering collaborative divorce experience.

Other ADR Processes

ADZ Law offers a range of alternative dispute resolution services, including arbitration, neutral evaluation, special master, and parent coordination services. Our attorneys assist clients in identifying and evaluating the most suitable and viable ADR process for their specific cases, ensuring a tailored approach to resolving disputes efficiently and effectively.