LSNEDS-CASE Scheme
The LSNEDS-CASE Scheme is a neutral evaluation scheme. Neutral Evaluation is a voluntary process and aims to resolve a dispute without going to trial. During evaluation, a neutral third party (the Neutral) will:
- Evaluate the case based on the evidence provided
- Provide an assessment of the likelihood of success for your case if it goes to Court
The neutral evaluation is non-binding and helps consumers make informed decisions to resolve their disputes more efficiently and fairly.
Neutral Evaluation Process
- CASE will offer the option of Neutral Evaluation to parties who are unable to reach a settlement through the CASE Mediation Centre.
- Upon receiving parties’ agreement to proceed, CASE will reach out to the Law Society to appoint an experienced lawyer from the LSNEDS-CASE Panel of Neutrals, to act as an independent third-party Neutral Evaluator to assess the case.
- During the Neutral Evaluation session:
- The main disputed parties will attend the Neutral Evaluation
- The Neutral will state his/her opinion of the case
- Disputed parties will have 14 days from the date the opinion is provided to decide whether to accept the Neutral’s opinion. They will sign a settlement agreement if the assessment is acceptable.
- What if parties do not accept the Neutral’s opinion?
- The Neutral’s opinion is non-binding. Disputed parties can consider whether to accept the Neutral’s assessment and decide how they wish to pursue the matter.
Benefits of Neutral Evaluation
- Provides an objective evaluation to assess the merits of your case.
- Settling your dispute through neutral evaluation will generally be faster and less costly than formal legal proceedings as you can potentially save on legal and court hearing fees.
- Neutral evaluation can help you clarify or narrow down the scope of your dispute. It will also give you a better estimate of your chances of success at trial.
Professional Panel of Neutrals
The panel of Neutrals participating in the Neutral Evaluation at CASE are experienced lawyers appointed by the President of the Law Society under the LSNEDS-CASE Scheme. The members of this Panel have met the qualifying requirements set out by the Law Society.