The purpose of this document is to discuss what Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is and how it came about, what different types of ADR you can choose from, and how the ADR benefits both parties over litigation. ADR can quickly resolve almost all minor issues regarding most civil cases relating to family, neighbors, employers, contractors, etc. ADR includes mediation (also known as conciliation), arbitration and resolution conferences. Some of the benefits of ADR include cost, speed, confidentiality, control, cooperative resolution, and industry experts. The short history of ADRADR has been around for many years but has really taken off in the last few decades, particularly after the Civil Rights Act of 1964 went into effect. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibited “discrimination in employment or public accommodations on the basis of race, sex, or national origin.” These laws have opened the “door” for employees to fight against their employer for fair treatment. Furthermore, during this period the women's movement and environmental movements grew rapidly leading to more and more court cases. The justice system was overwhelmed and cases were delayed for long periods of time. As courts sought to resolve cases quickly, more and more procedural errors were made. ADR mediation and arbitration have become a popular way of dealing with these types of cases and others and have helped relieve pressure on the already overburdened court system. The court system is still considered a fair way to challenge resolutions. However, it is time consuming and expensive. Some pros of litigation, according to Citizen's Guide.ca: Pros and cons of litigation, can set a precedent that will impede future... middle of paper... 2011Henton, Lesley. What is a transaction conference? 2009-2011. July 18, 2011Woods, Robert E. What are the benefits of alternative dispute resolution? 1995. July 6, 2011 Judicial Council of California. Alternative Dispute Resolution: Options for resolving your dispute. 2011. July 12, 2011 Bakke-Norman Law Offices. Alternative Dispute Resolution: A Customer Guide to Language and Procedure. 2010. 15 July 2011Beyond the coalition for intensive agriculture. Citizen's guide to dealing with a farm. April 2007. July 9, 2011