Anambra Lawyers Urged To Adopt Alternative Dispute Resolution

Anambra State Commissioner for Lands, Offornze Amucheazi, has urged lawyers to promote Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms for resolving disputes among their clients. Speaking at an event organized by Pinnacle Tree Attorneys in Awka, Anambra State, Amucheazi emphasized the benefits of ADR in guaranteeing quicker resolution of disputes, while still allowing lawyers to benefit from the process.

The commissioner noted that the huge sums of money spent by Anambra residents on litigation over matters that can be amicably settled through ADR are alarming. He dismissed the notion that ADR would replace litigation and deprive lawyers of their jobs, explaining that ADR combines features of both litigation and traditional dispute resolution, enabling lawyers to make money from the process.

Amucheazi, who was the keynote speaker at the event, spoke on the theme “Promoting Peaceful Settlement Through ADR (Peace is Better).” He encouraged lawyers to explore ADR in settling disputes among their clients, citing the success of the ministry in resolving 74 disputes through mediation since he assumed office. The ministry’s approach involves getting parties to sit down, listen to them, and allow them to make decisions on how to resolve their issues.

The Principal Partner of Pinnacle Tree Attorneys, Barr. Chekwuke Ezekwike, emphasized the importance of promoting peaceful arbitration over prolonged courtroom battles. She noted that disputes are a natural part of life, but the way they are handled matters. Ezekwike highlighted the beauty of ADR in providing peace that litigation cannot offer, often due to ego and pride.

Pinnacle Tree Attorneys is marking its third anniversary with a commitment to promoting ADR as a means of resolving disputes. The firm has successfully resolved disputes that litigation could not settle, demonstrating the effectiveness of ADR in providing peaceful settlements. As the legal profession continues to evolve, the adoption of ADR mechanisms is likely to play a significant role in promoting alternative means of dispute resolution.