Division of Regulation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ADR?

ADR is Alternative Dispute Resolution. ADR uses mediation techniques to help resolve disputes between the public and licensed professionals. A successful mediation is a voluntary agreement between the complainant and licensee.

What kind of complaints can be considered for ADR?

The Department may only investigate legally sufficient complaints or refer those complaints to ADR. The professional boards of each regulated profession have specified the types of complaints that are eligible for ADR. Complaints that can be considered for ADR must be disputes that are economic in nature or violations that can be remedied by the licensee. However, not all legally sufficient complaints that are economic in nature are eligible for ADR.

Is there any cost involved for mediation?

No. The Department provides mediation as a cost free alternative to investigation. In addition, mediation saves the Department time and money by reducing the expenses related to the investigation. The Department is not authorized to perform mediation services as part of a civil law suit.

Will I have to come to an ADR meeting?

No. In most cases mediation will be conducted by telephone, mail and fax.

What if the mediation process fails?

If your mediation fails, the complaint will be forwarded to our field offices for investigation.