Alternative Dispute Resolution
De Novo Review on Appeal
A trial court’s decision as to granting or denying a stay of proceedings – pending arbitration – is a final appealable order. It is also subject to de novo review on appeal with respect to issues of law – which commonly will predominate.
This is because these matters generally turn on issues of contractual interpretation or statutory construction.
The Best Book on Mediation and Arbitration Practice
Over the past 20 years, alternative dispute resolution has grown into its own recognized area of law. The literature continues to proliferate. Trying to make sense of the competing strategies produces a drinking-from-the-fire-hose-effect. Now there is a remedy for the TMI produced by strategists from every school of thought.
The ABA offers the best publication, by far, on the subject. Buy today The Client’s Guide to Mediation and Arbitration-The Strategy for Winning. Looks can be deceiving, and so is this book. Although only 91 pages long, it packs more wisdom and insight into ADR than all the other volumes assembled together. ADR expert Peter Silverman, a highly-regarded-speaker and legal strategist, knows how to get to the point. Fast.
Chapter 5 alone is merits the nominal $30 charge. Silverman articulates, simply and convincingly, his ideas for beginning with your settlement goals. Until your ranges are clearly defined, a lucid and dynamic presentation will remain beyond reach.
The framework Silverman recommends will quickly provide you with your WATNA (worst alternative to a negotiated agreement), BATNA (best alternative to a negotiated agreement). Then you can work on your ReTaZ (reasonable target zone for settlement) and LiStaR (likely statistical result).
Armed with Silverman’s insider tactics, your approach to hearings and settlements will be conducted on a considerably higher level.