Consumer Adr in Europe

This is the first systematic comparative study into how consumer alternative dispute resolution (ADR) systems work the differing national architectures within which they operate and how they can be improved. It describes ADR schemes in France Germany Lithuania the Netherlands Poland Slovenia Spain Sweden and the UK as well as emerging pan-EU dispute resolution schemes. The use of techniques of mediation conciliation and adjudication are noted. The book also covers EU measures on consumer ADR and the 2011 proposals for legislation on ADR and online dispute resolution. Data on volume cost and duration of ADR schemes are compared both between different systems and with courts. The findings underpin EU and national developments and outline options for future policy. Proposals are included for the functions scope performance essential requirements architecture and operation of ADR systems. The relationships between ADR courts and regulators are discussed and the need for reforms are noted. This is a ground-breaking work that will have a major impact on European legal systems. (Series: Civil Justice Systems)