RESEARCH

Allows courts to explore settlement through ADR mechanisms such as arbitration and mediation after issues are framed, promoting judicial ADR referrals.

Primary statute governing arbitration and conciliation in India, empowering courts under Sections 8 and 9 to refer disputes to arbitration and grant interim measures.

Encourages conciliation and settlement of family disputes, empowering Family Courts under Section 9 to make efforts for reconciliation between parties.

Introduces mandatory pre-institution mediation for commercial disputes, requiring parties under Section 12A to attempt settlement before filing a suit.

Establishes Legal Services Authorities and Lok Adalats to ensure free and speedy justice, enabling courts to refer matters under Section 19 to Lok Adalats.

Provides a comprehensive framework for institutional and community mediation, allowing parties or courts under Section 7 to refer disputes to mediation before or during judicial proceedings.