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The Anambra State Commissioner for Lands, Offornze Amucheazi (SAN), has urged lawyers in the state to motivate their clients to resolve conflicts using Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods.
Amucheazi, who addressed attendees at an event in Awka, Anambra State, organized by Pinnacle Tree Attorneys to celebrate their third anniversary, expressed concern over the significant amounts of money Anambra residents spend on police involvement in disputes that could be amicably resolved through ADR.
As the keynote speaker at the event, he dismissed the notion that ADR would eliminate litigation and jeopardize lawyers' careers. He clarified that ADR ensures a quicker resolution of conflicts while still allowing lawyers to benefit from the process.
Discussing the theme “Promoting Peaceful Settlement Through ADR (Peace is Better),” he remarked:
“Many believe that ADR will divert us from legal practice, but that is not the case. Modern ADR incorporates elements of both litigation and traditional dispute resolution, allowing lawyers to earn from it while ensuring satisfaction for all parties involved.
“I encourage lawyers to consistently consider ADR when addressing disputes for their clients. I have found that while arbitration may not be suitable for all cases, ADR generally provides a more effective means of resolving issues.
“The financial burden our community faces due to police involvement in cases is staggering. The police are profiting significantly from us, even though these issues could be resolved civilly. However, for ADR to be effective, all parties must approach it with an open mind.”
He noted that since he took office, the ministry has successfully mediated 74 disputes.
“We facilitate discussions between parties, allowing them to express their views and make their own decisions on how to resolve their issues. This is mediation, which differs from conciliation, where the conciliator prescribes the terms of settlement,” he elaborated.
“We are not suggesting that litigation should cease; rather, we should remain open to ADR. The advantage of ADR is that it helps preserve business relationships post-settlement. I have witnessed cases where individuals spent money and waited five to ten years for a judgment, only to find no benefits afterward.
“We will continue to educate our community because many cases in court can be settled through ADR. Some litigants have approached me expressing a desire to settle because they believe peace is preferable to the years wasted in court. Therefore, lawyers, when you set your fees, remember that there are more effective ways to resolve disputes than through litigation.”
Earlier in her opening remarks, the Principal Partner of Pinnacle Tree Attorneys, Barr. Chekwube Ezekwike, stated that the event's theme was selected to advocate for peaceful arbitration over lengthy legal battles.
“There is a perception that lawyers thrive on conflict, but I want to emphasize that we are also peacemakers. We are trained to face conflict, but wisdom teaches us that not every dispute requires aggression; we should seek resolution instead,” she stated.
“Pinnacle Tree Attorneys aims to change this narrative. We do not need to disrupt society or incite crises as lawyers. This theme reflects the needs of society and the direction justice should take. When individuals bear wounds that justice cannot mend, we utilize ADR.
“Disputes are a part of life, but what matters is how they are managed. The beauty of ADR lies in its ability to provide the peace that litigation cannot offer. Often, it is ego and pride that lead individuals to court over issues that could be settled amicably.
“As we celebrate our third anniversary, we commit ourselves to serving humanity. We have resolved disputes that litigation could not address. We aspire to lead a team of lawyers who will demonstrate that the courtroom is not the ultimate venue for settlement. At Pinnacle, peace is our product,” she concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)?
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) refers to various methods used to resolve disputes outside of traditional litigation, including mediation and arbitration.
Why should lawyers encourage the use of ADR?
Lawyers should promote ADR as it can lead to quicker resolutions, lower costs for clients, and the preservation of relationships, while still providing opportunities for lawyers to earn from the process.
How effective is ADR compared to litigation?
ADR is often more effective than litigation as it can resolve disputes more quickly, reduce costs, and allow parties to maintain relationships, making it a preferable option for many conflicts.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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