Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a blanket term for various methods of resolving your legal dispute without going to court. It very often involves the inclusion of an independent third party to assist in resolving the dispute. ADR is actively encouraged by the courts and politicians and it forms part of the pre-action protocol in the Civil Procedure Rules and Practice Directions. Although the Rules require that the parties should consider whether either negotiation or some other form of ADR is appropriate, it is an entirely voluntary process and all parties can withdraw at any time. However, those who do not consider other forms of ADR must be prepared to explain why to the court.