Beliefs

Mike believes that party autonomy is at the core of ADR. The parties should be able to choose any lawful procedure to resolve their disagreement speedily, efficiently and justly. The parties know the history of their relationship, of the dispute and their businesses. Neutrals are often (but not always) more familiar with the legal (including treaty based) requirements to achieve a final enforceable resolution.  Neutrals, by training, experience and study may be familiar with procedures, options and alternatives the parties may not and may be able to add value on those choices. But in the end, it is a fundamental premise of ADR that its procedures should be flexible enough to accommodate any procedure the law allows and the parties need.