Early Dispute Resolution Panel
A Four-Step Process Focused on Early Analysis and Resolution
How it works
Step 1: Initial Dispute Assessment
Parties work to simplify the dispute to its core material claims and issues, focusing on what is truly at stake.
Step 2: Focused Information Exchange
Each party shares the key documents and facts necessary to support informed evaluation and decision-making.
Step 3: Neutral-Assisted Risk Analysis
With guidance from the neutral, parties assess costs, risks, likely outcomes, and business interests to develop a realistic settlement range.
Step 4: Resolution
The neutral facilitates principled negotiation, helping parties move beyond positional bargaining. If needed, a formal mediation session may be scheduled. If resolution is not reached, parties are encouraged to pursue an expedited determination through arbitration or another alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process.
Faster, More Focused, and Cost-Effective Resolution
Benefits
EDR is designed to reduce time, cost, and uncertainty by focusing only on what is needed to evaluate and resolve a dispute.
Resolve Earlier
Address disputes before positions harden
Lower Costs
Avoid extensive discovery and motion practice
Strengthen Decision-Making
Evaluate risk and likely outcomes more effective
Stay Focused on Priorities
Align resolution strategies with real-world objectives
Increase Efficiency
Move quickly from assessment to resolution
Trusted Administration. Proven Process. Experienced Neutrals.
The AAA advantage
EDR-Trained Neutrals: AAA panelists trained in EDR protocols and decision tree analysis
Structured, Proven Framework: Guided by protocols developed by the EDR Institute
Dedicated Case Management: AAA case managers support the process from start to finish
Efficiency at Scale: Designed to deliver consistent, high-quality outcomes across matters
Flexibility: Virtual by default, with in-person options available as needed
Administration and timing
Expert Administration with a Fast Path to Resolution
The process is designed to move quickly, typically concluding within 30 days. EDR can also proceed concurrently with the arbitration process, helping to maintain momentum toward resolution.
As with all AAA-administered mediations, confidentiality is maintained throughout.
Featured EDR Panelists
Panelists
Michael Hawash
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Anne S. Jordan
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Peter Silverman
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Get Started with Early Dispute Resolution
Contact us
Contact the AAA today at mediationservices@adr.org to learn more about our Early Dispute Resolution Panel.