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Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) / Mediation

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) processes are alternative methods of helping people resolve legal problems before going to court. ADR involves an independent third person, called a "neutral" who tries to help resolve or narrow the areas of conflict.

Complaint Process

Neutrals who are providing court-annexed Alternative Dispute Resolution services to parties are bound by the Rule 114.13, Part A Code of Ethics for Court-Annexed ADR Neutrals. Court-annexed means a court proceeding has commenced and ADR services are being provided pursuant to a court order or agreement by the parties. The Code of Ethics for Court-Annexed ADR Neutrals is designed to protect consumers, guide Neutrals who provide ADR services, and ensure the integrity of ADR in Minnesota. If a Neutral violates any of the provisions of the Code of Ethics for Court-Annexed ADR Neutrals, parties may submit a complaint with the ADR Ethics Board. A complainant must complete the complaint form and attach any important documents related to the complaint, including a copy of the court order that appoints the Neutral in the case, if applicable.

The ADR Ethics Board will review the complaint at it's quarterly meeting. The Board shall review the complaint and determine whether the Board has a reasonable belief that the allegations, if true, would constitute a violation of the Code of Ethics for Court-Annexed ADR Neutrals. If the allegations, if true, would not constitute a violation of the Code of Ethics for Court-Annexed ADR Neutrals, the complaint is dismissed. If the complaint is not dismissed, the Board will investigate the complaint and act as it deems appropriate. The investigation begins by notifying the Neutral of the allegation(s). The Neutral has 28 days to respond to the allegation(s). The Board may issue a public or private sanction, or dismiss the complaint. Rule 114.13, Part B, Subd. 3 provides a list of possible remedies and sanctions. 

The Board does not have the authority to reverse a Neutral's or court's decision on a case or get any money back that you paid to the Neutral.

Complaint information is private and confidential. However, public sanctions against Neutrals are listed on this site.
 More information regarding complaints can be found in the FAQ tab on this site. 

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