Although many civil lawsuits end in a settlement, parties and their legal counsel frequently face challenges in resolving them, especially through alternative dispute resolution methods (ADR) like mediation and arbitration. Though generally faster and cheaper than litigation, ADR can still be time-consuming and expensive, especially because parties must hire mediators or arbitrators. Fortunately, the Middlesex County Superior Court offers plaintiffs and defendants’ attorneys in civil actions another avenue to pursue settlements of their cases.