Alternative Dispute resolution methods
Here are several examples:
The negotiation
In Negotiation parties find themselves the most appropriate solution to their problem. They also decide together of the practical details related to its implementation and on the monitoring of its implementation without the intervention of a third party.
Mediation
The parties can decide to turn to mediation (conventional mediation). It can also be ordered by the judge (court mediation).
Conventional mediation
Conventional mediation is an amicable conflict resolution process. A clause in the contract signed between the parties can force them to turn to mediation. The parties can also choose to turn to the process by themselves, spontaneously. Mediation involves an impartial third-party who helps the parties find their own optimal negotiated solution, in accordance with their respective interests.
If mediation is successful, an agreement is established. The content of the agreement can be made enforceable by a court or other competent authority in a judgment or decision or in an authentic instrument.
Judicial mediation
Judicial mediation is a measure ordered by the civil or the commercial judge, either on his own initiative after obtaining the agreement of the parties, or at the request of the parties. The judge appreciates the interest and the opportunity given by mediation in the context of Articles 131-1 to 131-15 of the Code of Civil Procedure.
As a non-profit organization, CMAP can be appointed as mediator by commercial courts, high courts, lower courts and courts of appeal.
At the end of the mediation, CMAP informs the judge in writing whether an agreement has been found or not.If the mediation fails,judicial proceedings are resumed. All mediation exchanges remain confidential. If the mediation is a success, the parties can submit their agreement to the judge for approval to make it enforceable.
Conciliation
Mediation and Conciliation refer to the dispute resolution process in which two or more parties attempt to reach an amicable agreement with the help of a third party.
There are few differences between conventional mediation and conventional conciliation.
However, judicial mediation and judicial conciliation are governed by different laws.
Article 21 of the CPC provides that “to reconcile the parties is part of the judge’s mission”.
Judicial conciliation is implemented by the judge himself or by a conciliator to whom he will have delegated his mission to reconcile.
However, judicial mediation is entrusted to a mediator, an external party to the jurisdiction. As provided in Article 131-1 of the CPC, the judge may designate the mediator if the parties agree. The conciliation is free for the parties. Mediation is a chargeable service.
Amicable expertise
Amicable expertise is a procedure that enables the parties to solicit together an independent expert for a confidential advice on a technical matter (defect, machine operation, product compliance, etc.) or on a financial matter (determination of a price or of a value).
The expert’s opinion is written and confidential.
Expertise is frequently inserted during a mediation or an arbitration process.
Arbitration
Arbitration is a private judicial method of conflict resolution, regulated in Articles 1442 of the Civil Procedure Code.
By contract, the conflict, which has arisen or may arise between one or more natural or legal people, is subject to the jurisdiction of a third party: an independent and impartial arbitrator or an arbitral tribunal (if several arbitrators compose it). The arbitrator(s) must solve the dispute in accordance with the applicable rules and trade usages. The arbitrator then renders a decision, called arbitration award. This decision has a binding force, which means that it is imposed upon the parties. The decision ends the conflict.
Court proceedings
This is the classic recourse to national courts.