Alternative Dispute Resolution Procedures (Family Law) Law & Legal Definition

Generally, alternative dispute resolution procedures in relation to family law matters are limited to procedures known as mediation and collaborative practice. Mediation is a way of resolving disputes between two or more parties with the help of a third party, the mediator, who assists the parties to negotiate their own settlement. Collaborative practice is a family law procedure in which the two parties agree that they will not go to court, or threaten to do so. Courts also encourage the use of arbitration, court-supervised settlement conferences, and judicial case management for resolution of family law matters. [Cal. San Francisco Trial Ct. Unif. L.R. 11.17].