Legal disputes are time-consuming, expensive, and emotionally draining. However, technology has helped eliminate the need to break into courts to resolve certain conflicts. Online legal dispute resolution is changing the way people in India settle legal matters-from petty disputes to major conflicts-with instances of offences, with both swift and efficient settlement.

What is Online Legal Dispute Resolution?

Online Legal Dispute Resolution (ODR) is a method of dispute settlement via digital platforms without physical appearances in courts. The entire process consists of video conferencing, online submissions, and digital communication between parties and mediators. It is a process most commonly used for:

• Consumer disputes
• Property disputes
• Contract issues
• Matrimonial cases
• Employment disputes

The procedure is legal and stands to be a fully recognised alternative to the regular court procedure.

How Does Dispute Resolution Work Online?

The process of dispute resolution and mediation online follows a simple procedure:

• Filing the Complaint: Conflict is lodged on one of the approved online platforms by any party interested in resolving his/her dispute.
• Selection of Mediator or Arbitrator: An independent third-party expert is appointed to resolve the case.
• Submission of Evidence: Documents and all relevant evidence are uploaded directly to the medium.
• Virtual Hearings: Meetings and discussions are conducted via a secure channel of video calls or chats.
• Final Decision or Agreement: If both parties agree, the matter is settled without court trials.

This process saves time and can be done from the comfort of your home.

What is a Settlement Agreement?

A Settlement Agreement, being a legally binding document, is signed by the parties once they reach an understanding on the resolution. It lists the terms of the agreement, including:

• The responsibilities of both parties
• Timelines for action or payment
• Confidentiality clauses, if any
• Consequences of breaching the agreement

This document holds the same legal value as a court judgment and can be enforced in court if necessary.

Benefits of Choosing Online Dispute Resolution

There are several conveniences when one chooses online dispute resolution:

• Time-Saving: In days, rather than months, disputes get resolved.
• Cost-Efficient: Say no to heavy spending on travel, on what seems like a mountain of paperwork, or on legal bills that are extended by hundreds of hours.
• Private & Secure: All communications and documentation are confidential.
• Accessible: It gives justice to the people who are living in remote locations or with some kind of disability.
• Less Stressful: Encourages cooperation and avoids aggressive courtroom confrontations.

Conclusion

With the change in legal regimes, ODR presents an innovative way of getting justice at a relatively quicker pace. Whether you want to work out a business tussle, or family issue, or a contract dispute, ODR simplifies the process with just an actionable resolution. It provides clarity to the settlement agreement so that both parties move on happily. So, if you are thinking of resolving a dispute, going with ODR can possibly be the best option.