Become a Mediator

Join the World of ADR

Become a Mediator

Dispute Resolution

Arbitration & Mediation

World-Class Training

Alternative Dispute Resolution refers to resolving a dispute without having to go resort to the traditional justice system. There are many different types and methods of resolving conflict. The use of restorative justice, collaborative law or circle processes can be beneficial in the right circumstances. Two of the most common ways of resolving conflict are through mediation and arbitration.

People from most professional or non-professional backgrounds can serve as ADR practitioners. In Canada, it is helpful to receive training and experience in ADR. It requires, time, effort and money. There are many companies and organizations in Canada that offer ADR training but few offer hands-on experience. Experience in ADR must be sought through personal and professional networks, which can take many years to establish.

Our course, provided by ADR ODR International, is a world-class program that allows all graduates to have an international presence as a mediator. The course offers 45 hours of training with 15 hours of asynchronous learning and an assignment submission.

For more details on the course and how you can register, please click here.

Following the course, you are advised to build on your practical experience as a mediator or arbitrator. If you are part of a government agency or an organization that will employ you as an ADR professional, you can build your experience in-house. However, if you are pursuing the private sector, gaining experience may be challenging. Building a network within the ADR community and becoming members of organizations such as DDRIOC, can help you network and build a practice.

In 2022, DDRIOC hopes to launch its internship program for students to gain experience. More information on the internship program will be provided in due course.

If you would like to more about how to pursue a career in ADR, contact us at info@ddrioc.com.

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a voluntary and non-binding form of dispute resolution that allows you to resolve your dispute outside of the traditional court structure. This means that you do not have to commit to a court action or trial. Instead, you can attempt to settle your case with a trained mediator who will help you negotiate an agreement determined by you and your opponent.

There are many benefits to mediating. Often court actions can take many years to settle, costing you thousands of dollars in legal fees. Mediation is a one-time charge and the prices vary depending on the mediator you choose. You can opt to mediate at any time and depending on the complexity of your case, you can usually resolve your dispute in a matter of days.

The best advantage to mediation is that the parties decide the outcome of the dispute and not a judge or arbitrator. This means, you can discuss several settlement options with your mediator and choose one that works best for all the parties.

What is Arbitration?

Arbitration is an alternative form of dispute resolution. It means that you do not have to seek resolution through a litigation process. Often parties are bound by a contract to arbitrate before going to litigation. If this is the case, parties often select an experienced third party neutral known as the arbitrator. Unlike mediation, where parties can choose to have an agreement, arbitrators have the power to pass a decision based on your rights and obligations that binds both parties.

The arbitration process is typically supported by written statements, expert reports and other pertinent evidence that supports your arguments. Depending on the complexities of your case, the arbitration process can last a day or go on for many weeks.

Arbitration can be beneficial, as it is generally a faster process than litigation and may be cheaper depending on your case.