PRESIDING JUDGE ERIC C. TAYLOR ANNOUNCES NEW FREE ONLINE DISPUTE RESOLUTION SERVICES FOR SMALL CLAIMS LITIGANTS

Los Angeles Online Dispute Resolution Program requires litigants to negotiate remotely before coming to court. In partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) and the Center for Conflict Resolution (CCR), this free online dispute resolution program for Small Claims litigants will require Small Claims litigants to attempt to settle their disputes online before appearing in Court. 

“LA-ODR is the latest example of the Court’s efforts to expand access to justice through remote technology solutions which will endure well beyond the pandemic,” Presiding Judge Taylor said. “I want to extend my gratitude to our partners at DCBA and CCR who have joined with us to launch this vital program for Small Claims litigants. I also want to commend our Executive Officer/Clerk of Court Sherri R. Carter for her continued commitment to pursing innovative solutions for court users.” 

“This first-of-its-kind partnership shows that public service and justice systems can collaborate using technology to help litigants resolve Small Claims disputes through mediation without the need to travel to the courthouse and appear before a judge," said Rafael Carbajal, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs who funded the effort, and whose staff is providing the mediation and counseling services. "We have seen that creating accessible remote solutions can reduce the time and costs associated with appearing in court, as well as keeping our communities safer at home during the pandemic."

Chris Welch, Executive Director of the Center for Conflict Resolution, stated, “With 32 years of experience as a court mediation provider, the Center for Conflict Resolution is honored to partner with the Court using the TurboCourt system. Another virtual door has opened to the courthouse. CCR is inside, ready to help parties resolve their disputes.” 

LA-ODR is the latest of many innovations that provide remote access to court services as part of the Court’s Here For You | Safe For You initiative. These innovative services not only improve efficiency, but safely provide access to justice during the COVID-19 pandemic and will help manage pandemic-related caseloads.