Condominium Dispute Resolution (CDR) is an alternative dispute resolution organization established under the aegis of the New England Chapter of Community Associations Institute in order to assist in the resolution of conflicts arising in community associations including condominium and cooperatives.

Offering both arbitration and mediation services facilitated by trained neutrals, CDR is available to CAI members and nonmembers.

Arbitration
Arbitration is a process of dispute resolution whereby a Neutral (as defined herein) renders a decision after hearing an abbreviated version of the evidence that could be produced at trial. Arbitration is a form of adjudication, whereas mediation is not. Depending on the agreement of the parties, the facts found by the Neutral may or may not be binding. In non-binding arbitration, either party may demand a trial after arbitration, subject to the rules of court and laws of the particular jurisdiction.

Mediation
Mediation is a process whereby a Neutral reasons with the parties in an attempt to facilitate a settlement. The Neutral attempts to focus the attention of the parties upon their needs and interests rather than upon their rights and positions. Any settlement is voluntary and the Neutral has no right to force a settlement, make any findings or rulings that are binding upon the parties, or enter any order. In the absence of settlement the parties lose none of their rights to a trial on the merits of their case. In order to facilitate settlement discussions, all parties to a mediation agree that all comments, concessions, offers and positions will not be used against he other party in any further proceeding.

Download a CDR Handbook (PDF)