About the dispute prevention and resolution (DPR) processes
Dispute prevention and resolution (DPR) processes offer a way to prevent or resolve a misunderstanding, problem, dispute or conflict.
Obligation to consider private dispute prevention and resolution processes
Since January 1, 2016, all parties must consider private dispute prevention and resolution (DPR) processes before referring a misunderstanding, problem, dispute or conflict to the courts.
Negotiation
Negotiation is based on voluntary communication and discussions between two or more people with the goal of settling a dispute.
Mediation
Using mediation, you can actively seek a solution to your dispute with another person, with help from a third party, the mediator.
Arbitration
Arbitration is a dispute prevention and resolution process. It can be used instead of a court trial.
Conciliation
Conciliation is an informal and confidential process in which a neutral person, the conciliator, helps you and the other party find a satisfactory solution to your dispute.
Settlement conferences
A settlement conference offers an opportunity to negotiate an out-of-court agreement with the other party with assistance from a judge. The service is provided free of charge.
Ombudsmen
An ombudsman is a person who can help settle your dispute with a public or private organization.
Last update: October 6, 2025