You have 0 free articles left this month.

Lawyers Weekly - legal news for Australian lawyers

Powered by MOMENTUM MEDIA
lawyers weekly logo
Advertisement
NewLaw

AG to further champion ADR

The release of a report into alternative dispute resolution (ADR) has prompted the Federal Government to champion it as a method for settling disputes.Last week (18 March) Attorney-General…

March 21, 2011 By Lawyers Weekly
expand image

The release of a report into alternative dispute resolution (ADR) has prompted the Federal Government to champion it as a method for settling disputes.

Last week (18 March) Attorney-General Robert McClelland released the National Alternative Dispute Resolution Advisory Council (NADRAC) report, Maintaining and Enhancing the Integrity of ADR Processes: From Principles to Practice Through People.

McClelland drafted the Terms of Reference for the report in December 2009 to determine whether any legislative changes were required to Australia's ADR system, in wake of its increasing use.

The report found that ways in which the conduct and integrity of ADR could be enhanced include the continued development of professional standards; further training and education for ADR practitioners; and the development of guidance materials.

"ADR is becoming an increasingly prominent feature of the way Australians access justice, and it is important to ensure the services that support them are consistent," McClelland said. "NADRAC's report will encourage greater use of ADR as an effective mechanism to resolve disputes."

The report specifically recommended the encouragement of "consensual" adherence to appropriate conduct standards, rather than through specific legislation, and recommended developing code of conduct standards, industry standards and community education as the best ways to do this.

The report also discussed issues around confidentiality, inadmissibility, immunity and conduct obligations of the relevant practitioners.

McClelland said that over 40 submissions from various parties were made in the preparation of the report.

You need to be a member to post comments. Become a member today
Got a tip for us?
If you have any news tips or stories to share, feel free to send them our way.
lawyersweekly jobs image
lawyersweekly jobs
Discover the latest legal jobs
Find Australian legal jobs, employment & career opportunities
Momentum Media Logo
Most Innovative Company