Most disputes are suitable for ADR. Usually they involve two parties but most processes are able to accommodate more complex situations such as where there are more parties involved.

Types of matters that can dealt with by ADR include:

• family law (parenting and property issues);
• other family matters;
• employment;
• community (neighbours, local businesses);
• victim – offender matters (these are sometimes court referrals);

• commercial;
• industrial; and
• government.

In some cases legislation (written law) or a contract may state that ADR must be tried before a case can go to court. The contract or legislation will generally indicate what type of ADR you must use. You can find this out by reading the contract but in the case of legislation it may be a good idea to get legal advice so you fully understand your rights and obligations around this issue.