Jurisdiction(s):
United Kingdom

Key definition

ADR definition

What does ADR mean? ADR describes processes used to resolve disputes without a full court trial (and, in UK civil procedure, usually without arbitration). In England and Wales, the cpr Glossary defines ADR as a collective description of methods of resolving disputes otherwise than through the normal trial process. Common forms include negotiation, mediation, conciliation, early neutral evaluation (ENE), expert determination and ombudsman schemes; in construction, statutory adjudication is also used. Arbitration is often treated separately because it yields a binding award akin to a judgment. Key features are voluntary participation (although courts may order or stay proceedings for ADR where proportionate), confidentiality and without-prejudice...

SRA‑Aligned Litigation, Advocacy and ADR Policy: Court Duties, Contempt, Professional Conduct, LiPs and AI (England and Wales)

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Precedents

1 Introduction

1.1 This Policy sets out our approach to conducting litigation and advocacy before any court or tribunal, and to all forms of Alternative dispute resolution (ADR). It mirrors the obligations placed upon us by the court and the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), alongside wider professional responsibilities.
1.2 Non-compliance can have significant repercussions:
1. 1.2.1 the firm or any employee could be held in contempt of court, carrying penalties up to a fine or imprisonment;
2. 1.2.2 our good name may suffer;
3. 1.2.3 the SRA or another regulator may take action against the firm or individuals, potentially resulting in fines, disqualification or other sanctions;
4. 1.2.4 we could face a formal complaint from our client or an opposing party.
1.3 We have always treated our obligations to the court with utmost seriousness and will continue to do so.

2 Scope of this policy

2.1 This policy applies to:
1. 2.1.1 litigation and advocacy before any court or tribunal;
2. 2.1.2 alternative dispute resolution (ADR), such as mediation or arbitration.
2.2 It also encompasses all work carried out before litigation, advocacy or ADR begins. References to the court also include tribunals, arbitrators, mediators and comparable bodies or individuals...

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Web page updated on 22/05/2026

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