Online Dispute Resolution is the future of Alternative Dispute Resolution

With courts across the country struggling under the overwhelming weight of pending disputes, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) proved itself to be the light at the end of the tunnel for many – gaining recognition and popularity for its ease and convenience. Next, with rising disputes in the e-commerce sphere, Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) emerged as the better, more practical approach to dispute resolution. In recent days, we have learnt that ODR’s applications go much beyond the umbrella of banking, employment or real estate and play a crucial role within the legal system.  

In today’s age of pandemic and social distancing, the so-called online version of ADR has been dominating the spotlight. Online Dispute Resolution is now, without a doubt, accepted to be the future of Alternative Dispute Resolution. Here are a few reasons why ODR is irrefutably the future of ADR: 

The Cost Factor 

It is almost immediately apparent that ODR is the more economical in dispute resolution. All it requires is good internet connectivity and lawyers booked for short time slots. The ‘online’ nature of it all drastically reduces the transportation or the accommodation costs that would otherwise be involved in inter-city disputes.  

Neutral Nature 

As the entire ODR process is conducted online, it tends to be more unbiased and neutral than a dispute resolution process happening in person. With parameters of resolution already in place, it aids for the proceedings to be transparent and fair. 

Faster Resolution  

The quicker completion and resolution of disputes makes ODR an ideal option for small and medium level disputes between parties that would otherwise, bogged among the extensive line of pending cases take eons in court. 

A technologically-advanced India 

With the country increasingly making the shift to online technologies, it is only natural that the legal system does the same. ODR is one of the best options towards this transition as it fits perfectly with the vision of a tech-savvy country where justice remains fair and equitable to all. 

Albeit, a major factor that will influence a more permanent shift towards ODR would be the acceptance from users, the public and legal professionals.