MSPS urged to consider new law to boost alternatives to civil litigation
Increased use of alternatives to civil courts has been backed by a Holyrood committee.
The justice committee said boosting the use of other dispute resolution methods such as arbitration and mediation could help transform civil justice in Scotland.
But it warned that safeguards need to be in place to help protect domestic abuse victims.
In a report, the committee recommends MSPS consider bringing in legislation to increase the use of alternative dispute resolution which it said is in many cases “quick-
er, cheaper, more flexible and less stressful” than civil court.
It also asks the authorities to consider how they could fund more consistent services on these alternatives nationwide.
The committee recommends a pilot scheme for mandatory information meetings outlining the choices to be set up, except in domestic abuse cases.
Committee convener Margaret Mitchell said: “The Scottish civil justice system could undergo a step change if we increase the use of less confrontational methods of resolving disputes.
“The committee heard compelling evidence about the benefits of alternative dispute resolution methods that already exist.
“However, barriers of knowledge, provision and funding can all too often prevent them from being realised.”