Which of the following is a common form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR)?

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) encompasses methods used to resolve disputes without going through traditional litigation. Mediation and arbitration are two of the most recognized forms of ADR.

Mediation involves a neutral third party who facilitates a conversation between the parties in dispute, helping them find a mutually acceptable resolution. The mediator does not impose a solution but rather guides the discussion, allowing the parties to maintain control over the outcome.

Arbitration, on the other hand, is a process where a neutral third party, known as an arbitrator, listens to both sides and then makes a binding decision. This is more formal than mediation and resembles a court proceeding, but it is generally less structured and quicker.

Both mediation and arbitration are designed to be more efficient, cost-effective, and private than litigation. They provide a platform for parties to negotiate and resolve their issues without the adversarial environment of a courtroom. Thus, since both mediation and arbitration are integral parts of the ADR landscape, the correct answer encompasses both of these forms of dispute resolution.