ADR is a broad term that refers to any process that is used to resolve disputes outside of the court system. ADR methods can be used to resolve a wide variety of disputes, including contract disputes, employment disputes, and personal injury disputes.

There are many different types of ADR, but some of the most common include:

* Mediation: A neutral third party (the mediator) helps the parties to reach an agreement.

* Arbitration: The parties agree to submit their dispute to a neutral third party (the arbitrator) who will make a binding decision.

* Negotiation: The parties try to reach an agreement on their own, without the help of a neutral third party.

* Conciliation: A neutral third party (the conciliator) helps the parties to reach an agreement, but the conciliator does not have the power to make a binding decision.

* Fact-finding: A neutral third party (the fact-finder) gathers information about the dispute and presents it to the parties. The fact-finder does not make a recommendation or decision.

* Ombudsperson: A neutral third party who investigates complaints and makes recommendations to the parties.

There are many reasons why you might want to use ADR to resolve a dispute. Some of the benefits of ADR include:

* It is faster and less expensive than going to court.

* It is more confidential than going to court.

* It is more likely to result in a mutually agreeable solution.

* It can help to preserve the relationship between the parties.

The best way to choose the right ADR process for your dispute is to consider the specific circumstances of your case. Some factors to consider include:

* The type of dispute.

* The number of parties involved.

* The amount of money at stake.

* The parties’ preferences.

* The availability of ADR services in your area.

The first step is to contact an ADR provider. There are many ADR providers available, including private companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. The ADR provider will help you to choose the right ADR process for your dispute and will provide you with more information about the process.

There are some risks associated with using ADR, such as:

* The parties may not be able to reach an agreement.

* The ADR process may be more expensive than expected.

* The ADR process may not be confidential.

It is important to weigh the risks and benefits of ADR before deciding whether or not to use it.