What is one potential benefit of using alternative dispute resolution (ADR)?

One significant benefit of using alternative dispute resolution (ADR) is that it typically costs less than going through the court system. This is primarily due to several factors associated with ADR processes, which often involve fewer formalities and can be completed more quickly than traditional litigation.

Litigation can incur substantial costs, including court fees, attorney fees, and expenses related to lengthy trials. In contrast, ADR methods such as mediation and arbitration usually involve lower fees, as they may require less time and fewer resources to reach a resolution. Additionally, ADR can help parties avoid the extensive preparation and discovery phases seen in court cases, leading to savings on legal costs.

The other options listed do not align with the characteristics of ADR. For example, unregulated outcomes do not guarantee legally binding results, and methods like mediation may leave final decisions in the hands of the parties involved rather than imposing court determinations. Also, ADR is generally designed to be faster than litigation, rather than more time-consuming. Lastly, ADR processes are inherently informal and do not follow the rigid protocols of formal court procedures.