Survey reveals strong consensus that the demand for ADR services is rising, as well as insight into main practice areas of ADR
The Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Committee of The Bar of Ireland has today published the results of its inaugural survey to gain insights into recent developments, trends and opinions of ADR amongst practitioners.
The survey reveal 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.
1 in 5 members of The Bar of Ireland identify a practice in Arbitration or Mediation – an area which has previously been highlighted as a major disruptor likely to impact on the legal profession.
Results from the State of ADR in 2025 survey include:
- 61% of respondents believe that demand for ADR will 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 practiced in Arbitration in the last 12 months
- 83% of respondents reported that ADR produced a successful outcome in more than half of their cases.
- 88% of respondents indicated that the use of ADR methods resulted in cost savings for the parties involved.
- 86% of respondents indicated they practiced in more than one area of ADR
Speaking to the published survey report, 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 survey and its findings have been published ahead of The Bar of Ireland’s sold-out conference, Mediation: Making Commercial Sense, taking place today (Friday 16th May) in the Dublin Dispute Resolution Centre. The Conference will address the survey themes from the perspective of State Bodies, the Judiciary and Counsel.