Alternative Dispute Resolution: Neutral Evaluation in New Zealand

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a way to solve disagreements without going to court. One special type of ADR is called Neutral Evaluation. This method is becoming popular in New Zealand because it can save time and money for everyone involved.

What is Neutral Evaluation?

Neutral Evaluation is when an independent expert, known as a "neutral," looks at the facts of a disagreement and gives their opinion on how it might be resolved. This expert does not take sides; they simply provide an honest assessment of the situation.

How Does It Work?

Here’s a simple example: Imagine two neighbours in New Zealand who are arguing about a fence that they both believe is on their property. Instead of going to court, they can choose Neutral Evaluation. They would meet with a neutral expert who knows about property laws. The expert would listen to both sides, review any evidence, and then give their opinion on where the fence should be placed according to the law.

Benefits of Neutral Evaluation

• Quick Resolution: It usually takes less time than going through the court system.
• Cost-Effective: It can be cheaper than a full court case.
• Confidential: The discussions are private, so personal matters stay out of the public eye.
• Informed Decisions: The expert’s opinion can help both parties understand their options better.

When to Use Neutral Evaluation

Neutral Evaluation is useful in many situations, such as:

• Disputes between neighbours, like property boundaries.
• Business disagreements, such as contract issues.
• Family matters, like child custody arrangements.

Conclusion

In New Zealand, Neutral Evaluation is a helpful way to resolve disputes without the stress of going to court. It allows people to find a fair solution with the guidance of an expert, making it a valuable option for many disagreements.