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Settle Out of Court

Going to court is not always the best way to solve a legal dispute because it can be costly, time-consuming and very stressful. Other ways to solve legal problems are called "alternative dispute resolution" (ADR). Common types of ADR include mediation, arbitration, and neutral evaluation.

Overview

Why settle out of court?

  • An independent, neutral third person (a "neutral") listens to the facts from all sides and tries to focus on the core issues.
  • A settlement can often be reached more quickly than in a court process.
  • Parties can save money by trying to settle their issues rather than going to court, which may involve lawyer's fees and other costs.
  • Parties are often more satisfied with the outcome, especially if the dispute involves family members.
  • A law or court order might require the parties to use ADR.
  • NOTE: If you feel threatened by or unsafe with the other party, you may want to get legal advice or help from an advocate before using ADR.

Need Help?

Self-Help Centers

A Self-Help Center is a place where you can find helpful information, services and resources about your legal problem if you are not represented by a lawyer.

Self-Help Center Locations

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State Law Library

Room G25
Minnesota Judicial Center
25 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55155

(651) 297-7651

mn.gov/law-library