Max Harla

The Chicago International Dispute Resolution Association (CIDRA) is a forum for resolving transnational business disputes. Based in Chicago, one of the world's leading commercial centers, CIDRA provides a neutral, private setting for arbitration and mediation. It maintains a roster of qualified attorneys and experts ready to serve on arbitration panels and as mediators and fact-finders. CIDRA's objective is to resolve, manage or prevent cross-border commercial conflict. Though such conflict may be inevitable and sometimes even beneficial, it wastes time and money if it is not properly channeled. CIDRA thus provides:

Arbitration: In international business, arbitration has a unique advantage over litigation. Arbitral awards are final and binding on the parties--and treaties permit their enforcement in almost every country. By contrast, there is no corresponding system for the recognition and enforcement of judicial decisions. Arbitration cases are also heard in private, with fewer legal formalities than court litigation. The result is usually a faster, less expensive solution with little or no publicity. There is no jury; there is no appeal. Generally, no punitive damages or attorneys' fees are awarded. And, the arbitrators are chosen by the parties, themselves. CIDRA maintains a roster of expert neutrals from which parties may make their selection. Its arbitrators have strong legal and technical expertise, and experience with a wide range of businesses, cultures, and regions of the world.

Mediation: Mediation uses a neutral third party to hear both sides' points of view so as to facilitate or propose new solutions. It is a highly flexible, creative technique for settling disputes, and can be combined (typically as a first stage) with arbitration. Unlike arbitration, mediators' suggestions are not binding on the parties without their agreement.

Expert Fact-Finding: Sometimes what parties need is a neutral legal or industry expert who can determine specific facts following an investigation or analysis. CIDRA offers this service, separately or in addition to arbitration and mediation.

Rules: CIDRA's Rules govern the administration of its arbitrations and mediations, including "Fast Track" rules for parties desiring expedited hearings.

Contract Clauses: CIDRA's standard arbitration clauses for commercial contracts are tailored to arbitration and/or mediation of disputes by CIDRA. These include basic clauses and some options.

Education and Training: CIDRA helps to educate the business and legal communities about the benefits of arbitration and mediation. It also conducts seminars and training sessions for arbitrators and mediators.