Are there alternate dispute resolution options available in small claims court?

Yes, there are alternative dispute resolution (ADR) options available in small claims court in Rhode Island. ADR options provide an alternative way of settling disputes and are available to those filing small claims court cases in Rhode Island. ADR can provide faster, less expensive resolution of civil disputes than a court trial, and is often seen as a less confrontational way to settle a disagreement. Two types of ADR options are available in Rhode Island small claims court. One is mediation, which is a meeting led by a trained mediator. The mediator does not decide the disputed issue, but instead helps the parties involved to come to an agreement together. The other option is arbitration, where a neutral third-party decides the outcome of the dispute. The ruling is binding and either party may have to pay damages if the other party is successful in their claim. There are advantages and disadvantages to pursuing an ADR route in small claims court. Some advantages are a faster resolution of the dispute, less formal rules of evidence, and being able to choose a decision-maker who is well-versed in the area of law relevant to your case. Drawbacks can include sacrificing the right to a jury trial, a greater degree of compromise being necessary, and a lack of appeal procedures for the decision. Before going to small claims court, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of the ADR options available and decide if it is the right choice for your case.

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