Thursday 22 May 2025

The Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Committee of the Bar of Ireland has published the results of its inaugural survey to gain insights into recent developments, trends and opinions of ADR among practitioners.

The survey reveals the widespread practice of ADR, often in more than one area, from barristers and ADR practitioners from other backgrounds including engineers, consultants, surveyors and the public sector.

ADR refers to a range of approaches used to resolve disputes outside of a traditional courtroom setting, including methods such as mediation, arbitration, and adjudication amongst others. Practitioners in the field bring a diverse and specialised skill set.

One in five members of the Bar of Ireland identify a practice in arbitration or mediation – an area which has previously been highlighted as a significant disruptor likely to impact on the legal profession.

Key findings from the 'State of ADR in 2025' survey include:

• 61% of respondents said that they believed demand for ADR would increase;
• An increase in court directed ADR was the most commonly cited trend by practitioners, followed by technology and AI;
• Employment, construction and family disputes were identified as the top practice areas in ADR;
• 26% of non-barrister ADR practitioners practised in arbitration in the last 12 months;
• 88% of respondents indicated that the use of ADR methods resulted in cost savings for the parties involved;
• 86% of respondents indicated they practised in more than one area of ADR with 96% of respondents indicating they practised in mediation.

Chair of the Arbitration and ADR Committee Cathy Smith SC said: “This survey illustrates a dynamic sector which is becoming increasingly central to the legal profession and offers significant benefit to clients and the public including cost-effectiveness, reconciliation and reduction of pressure on the courts system.

"The Arbitration and ADR Committee are committed to promoting and supporting these practice areas for members while emphasising the unique skills and expertise barristers can bring to the world of ADR.”

The full findings and overview of 'State of ADR 2025' are available here.