Dispute Resolution Research Guide: Getting Started

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) or "appropriate" dispute resolution refers to procedures for settling disputes by means other than litigation.  ADR is an umbrella term that includes traditional processes such as arbitration, mediation, negotiation.  It also includes problem-solving approaches such as collaborative law and restorative justice.

Each of the myriad of dispute resolution mechanisms is governed by its own rules.  These rules exist at the federal, state, and local level.  There are also rules promulgated by private agencies.  It is incumbant upon the student or practitioner to identify the rules that apply to a particlular proceeding whether it be an arbitration, mediation or other mechanism for alternative dispute resolution. 

One good source for current rules is Nichols Illinois Civil Practice: with Forms Alternative Dispute Resolution Handbook, cited in the "Featured Resources" section of this page.

Loyola's Dan K. Webb Center for Advocacy is one of the most well-respected advocacy programs in the U.S. It offers classes in trial advocacy, appellate advocacy, and alternative dispute resolution.

• Why Take ADR Classes
• List of ADR Course Offerings

The Dispute Resolution Guide (Guide) provides information about, and where possible, links to, the most popular and most-cited dispute resolution resources that Loyola students, staff, and patrons have access to.  The Guide is organized primarily by format. But under each format tab, items are divided by topic. So, for example, the "books" tab is further divided into separate pages on ADR sources, sources on negotiation, mediation etc.

This guide is not intended to be exhaustive.  For example, the Guide does not include sources on international commercial arbitration.  For those sources, see the Library's International Commercial Arbitration research guide.  Likewise, the Guide does not include sources devoted to mechanisms specific to particular areas of law or before specific tribunals.  So, for example, this guide does not include a texts on mediation in family law disputes or dispute resolution before the World Trade Organization, thought the Library has resources on both those topics.