Bill > SB256

This bill establishes comprehensive provisions for alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes in Missouri, creating a detailed framework that defines key terms, outlines procedural guidelines, and ensures confidentiality. The legislation defines various ADR methods like mediation, arbitration, and early neutral evaluation, and provides explicit rules about how these processes can be initiated, conducted, and managed by courts. The bill allows courts to refer civil cases to non-binding ADR processes, specifies the conditions under which parties can participate or seek exemption, and creates strict confidentiality protections for communications during these processes. Importantly, the bill allows for ADR processes before, during, or after legal proceedings, and establishes that neutrals (facilitators) must disclose potential conflicts of interest and maintain impartiality. The legislation also provides specific exceptions where ADR communications might be admissible as evidence, such as in cases involving potential abuse, threats of bodily harm, or planned criminal activities. Critically, the bill emphasizes that participation in ADR does not undermine participants' rights to a jury trial and that settlement agreements must be in writing to be binding.

Justice

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=89