A means of settling a dispute other than by way of litigation. These methods include arbitration and mediation and are usually less costly and more expeditious than litigation.

The reference of a dispute to an impartial person or persons chosen by the parties who agree in advance to abide by the arbitration award issued after the hearing at which both parties are given an opportunity to be heard.

The process of calculating how much money compensation a court should award a party following a breach of contract, personal injury or other monetary claim.

A decision of a court regarding the rights and liabilities of the parties to legal proceedings. Judgments generally provide the court’s explanation as to why it has chosen to make a particular decision.