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Alternative Dispute Resolution: Policy & Guidance

Alternative Dispute Resolution includes any procedures in which parties agree to use a third-party neutral to resolve issues in controversy, including but not limited to, facilitation, mediation, factfinding, minitrials, arbitration or use of ombuds, or any combination thereof.

ADR for Contract Disputes

ADR for Workplace Disputes

GUIDANCE

AFI 51-1201, ADR in Workplace Disputes (17 March 2014). Implements Air Force ADR policy, AFPD 51-12, in workplace disputes.

Voluntary Mediator Certification Program (Revision 6 February 2012). Newly revised guidelines for voluntary certification of Air Force collateral duty mediators.

Guidance for Mediators on Union Participation in EEO Mediations (March 3, 2003). SAF/GCR guidance to mediators on the effect of the court of appeals decision in AFGE v. Dover AFB (D.C. Cir 2003) regarding union participation rights in EEO mediations.

Laws Regulations and Rules

LAWS

Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996

Alternative Dispute Resolution Act of 1998

REGULATIONS

Federal Acquisition Regulations, 48 Code of Federal Regulations Part 33 (48 C.F.R. Part 33), Protests, Disputes, and Appeals

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission EEO Complaint Processing Regulations, 29 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1614 (29 C.F.R. Part 1614)

Department of Defense Directive 5145.5, Alternative Dispute Resolution (April, 1996)

FEDERAL COURT RULES

U.S. Court of Federal Claims Notice of ADR Referral Program (Link to U.S. Court of Federal Claims)