In Alabama, there are various different grounds that can lead to a business dispute. Often, prior agreements and contracts have terms that the businesses disagree upon. Disputes can also occur over property matters, billing issues or other disagreements.

What to Do in a Business Dispute?

In a business dispute in Athens, Alabama, the parties should first go over any relevant documents, especially contracts. There may be terms in these documents that determine how to handle the dispute. If there are no relevant documents, or the contracts do not have resolution clauses, then the dispute may need to be taken to court. In trying to discover the best resolution for two parties who have not agreed beforehand on a resolution, Alabama courts will use particular legal principles designed for the situation. The laws designed to settle contract disputes are different in each state. Attorneys practicing in Athens are versed in the contract law of Alabama, and can help you to handle the dispute should it go to court. An attorney's knowledge of the law may also lead to a more streamlined discussion with the other business about how to resolve the dispute. Negotiations may even enable you to resolve the dispute without going to court.

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Contracts sometimes have clauses that mandate resolution outside of court. Methods for reaching out of court solutions are often called Alternative Dispute Resolution or ADR. Mediation and Arbitration are included in the concept of ADR. ADR eliminates the need to go to court, while attempting to reach the same resolution that a court would have. Different types of ADR involve their own procedures, however, and they often include a neutral third party making a determination based on local law. If ADR is to be used in resolving your dispute, an attorney in Athens specialized with ADR procedures can help you develop your case.