TulsaPets Magazine July 2021

July/August 2021 • TulsaPets 13 the parties are a part of crafting. One of the main purposes of the alternative dispute resolution process is that the parties agree to the final outcome, which, while it may not be ideal, is almost always much more palatable than rolling the dice for a judge to make a decision that they have no control over and are bound to. Some disputes will, by their nature, involve attorneys, insurance companies (more attorneys) and even possibly gov- erning organizations or law enforcement. That does not mean that you cannot work toward an out of court resolution from the beginning of the case or ask for mediation throughout the process. Almost all judges will require some form of mediation prior to moving into trial. It is necessary to be reasonable in your expectations with alternative dispute reso- lution. Keep in mind the goal you are really trying to achieve. While most disputes appear at first to just come down to money, when you step back and look at options, it is usually more about being heard and having a positive resolution. How do you find a dispute resolution professional when you need one? There are many resources available: Oklahoma has a robust Alternative Dispute Resolution system, made up of 13 regional communi- ty-based centers, also referred to as Early Settlement Mediation Centers. These options utilize community volunteers who are trained in the process of mediation. The Early Settlement Mediation program provides free services to disputants through this program, whether you are already involved in the litigation process or want- ing to avoid that step. You can find more information at adrs.oscn.net. Breed associations and clubs may have a list of referrals or professionals within the organization for dispute resolution. Your attorney should have familiari- ty with various methods of Alternative Dispute Resolution; don’t be afraid to ask when you are interviewing an attorney if they will work with you to move forward in this manner, if that is your preference. Some attorneys have an aversion to ADR and prefer to litigate or work from a positional approach. Ask them their opinion on what the different processes will cost in time and money and the potential outcomes. Oklahoma Academy of Collaborative Professionals maintains a website at yourdi- vorcechoice.com with qualified profession- als who are all trained mediators as well as collaborative process professionals. While the link suggests disputes related to family matters, the collaborative process lends itself well to a myriad of types of disputes especially involving emotional matters. The team approach brings together trained attorneys, mental health profession- als, or “coaches” who assist with identifying emotional triggers and facilitating produc- tive dialogue, and financial neutrals, who can gather, prepare and analyze financial information to streamline the process. Melissa Fell is a collaborative attorney and mediator in Tulsa currently serving as chair of the Tulsa County Bar Association Alternative Dispute Resolution section as well as president of the Oklahoma Academy of Collaborative Professionals. A lifelong equestrian, she has amassed state, national and world champion titles showing in Quarter Horse, National Snaffle Bit and Palomino associations. NEW OUTDOOR PLAY AREA Dog Daycare, Boarding, Grooming + Supplies $ 5 OFF One Night of Boarding With this coupon only. Not valid with any other offers. Expires Sept. 15, 2021. $ 5 OFF Grooming New customers only with this coupon. Not valid with any other offers. Expires Sept. 15, 2021. NOW OFFERING DOG TRAINING Come see our new all season artificial turf play area complete with special Dog Grass! 609 S. Peoria Ave. in the Pearl District Mon-Fri 7am-8pm Sat 8am-8pm Sun 10am-6pm (918) 508-7362 | pawsonpearl.com Open late 7 days a week 24-hour supervised play and boarding LOBBY OPEN COME JOIN THE FIESTA! SEPTEMBER 11, 2021 7PM-10PM, OU - Tulsa Founder’s Hall PURCHASE TICKETS AT: TULSASPCA.ORG/BINGO-BASH