Preparation Still Key to Successful Dispute Resolution

摘要

Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many dispute resolution practices and proceedings have shifted from in person to virtual. For lawyers, this shift to virtual proceedings has both advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, virtual proceedings can eliminate or significantly reduce certain costs, such as travel and facility expenses, and costs of hard copy materials, such as voluminous exhibits. Clients appreciate that cost saving. Using virtual dispute resolution proceedings has also required many lawyers, including me, to become more proficient in the use of electronic discovery and evidentiary presentation tools. As well, virtual proceed- ings certainly reduce the risk of larger gatherings where risks of COVID-19 exposure are likely greater.