What legal process is used to resolve disputes without going to court, often involving a neutral third party?

The correct answer is arbitration. This legal process involves the resolution of disputes outside of traditional court settings. In arbitration, the involved parties present their case to an impartial third party, known as an arbitrator, who listens to both sides before making a binding decision. This process is generally more formal than mediation but less formal than litigation, making it a popular choice for resolving disputes in areas such as business, consumer issues, and labor relations.

Mediation, while also involving a neutral third party, is distinct because it focuses on facilitating dialogue between the parties to help them reach a mutually agreeable solution rather than issuing a binding decision. If the parties cannot come to an agreement through mediation, they often have the option to escalate to arbitration or litigation.

Litigation refers specifically to the process of bringing a dispute before a court, which involves adhering to strict legal procedures and can be time-consuming and expensive. Negotiation is the process of discussing issues directly between the parties without a neutral third party, which may not be suitable for all types of disputes. Arbitration's binding nature and structured approach make it a robust option for parties seeking to resolve conflicts efficiently.