Court litigation is a public, adversarial process where a judge renders a win-lose judgment after months or years of formal pleadings. Mediation is a private, confidential, and collaborative session where an impartial mediator helps the parties agree on their own mutually acceptable resolution—often in a single day or few structured sessions.
Have a Dispute You'd Like to Discuss?
Start a confidential conversation with our team. We assist corporate counsel, executive leaders, business owners, and individuals across Nigeria.

Praeclarus ADR Center Secretariat & Case Registry, Port Harcourt
Direct Contact Channels
Connect directly with our dispute intake coordinators. Whether you have an existing arbitration agreement or wish to initiate voluntary mediation, our team is at your disposal.
Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (WAT)
Virtual dispute sessions and urgent hearings can be scheduled outside normal registry hours by prior arrangement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Key considerations before initiating an Alternative Dispute Resolution process.
How does mediation differ from going to court?+
Are arbitration awards legally enforceable?+
Yes. In accordance with the applicable arbitration agreement and relevant domestic arbitration legislation, as well as international conventions (such as the New York Convention), arbitral awards may be legally binding and enforceable through high courts, similar to judicial judgments.
How long does the ADR process take?+
While court cases can take between 3 to 7+ years depending on judicial backlogs and appeals, commercial mediations are typically concluded in 1 to 3 sessions. Arbitrations can be conducted on expedited schedules ranging from 60 to 180 days.
Is everything discussed during mediation confidential?+
Yes. All discussions, offers, and documents exchanged solely within the mediation context are strictly confidential and conducted on a without prejudice basis. They cannot be introduced as evidence in future litigation if the matter does not settle.
What should I prepare before our initial consultation?+
You only need a concise summary of the dispute, an outline of the parties involved, and any relevant contract containing an ADR or arbitration clause. You do NOT need to submit voluminous evidence at this initial exploratory stage.