Online Dispute Resolution, or ODR, means that we are using some online tools to assist in resolving the dispute. The extent of this depends on your level of comfort and what is appropriate for the case.
Online dispute resolution (ODR) tools are digital tools that help parties resolve disputes without going to court:
- Discovery exchange: Allows parties to exchange information
- Direct negotiations: Allows parties to negotiate directly with each other
- Mediation support: Provides synchronous or asynchronous mediation support
- Technology-supported adjudication: Uses technology to help adjudicate the dispute
ODR can be fully online or used in conjunction with traditional dispute resolution methods. It can be offered by private parties, courts, or government entities.
ODR tools can help with a variety of tasks, including: Organizing information, Sending automatic responses, Monitoring performance, Scheduling meetings, and Clarifying interests and priorities.
ODR was originally used in commercial settings, such as on websites like eBay, to help resolve disputes between buyers and sellers. In recent years, courts have also begun to use ODR to help process cases.