alternative resolutions

ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE SERVICES

Arbitration
At the request of one of the directors of the American Arbitration Association, Mr. Johnston applied for and was selected to become a part of the American Arbitration Association. Based upon his training and experience, he has been designated as a Level II Arbitrator, Mr. Johnston has never had one of his arbitration decisions contested.

Mediation
Mediation is by far the most common type of ADR procedure. Mr. Johnston has participated either as a mediator or as an advocate, in literally hundreds of mediations. Mr. Johnston is now a certified mediator. His vast trial and mediation experience allow him to approach mediation from a practical standpoint, which gives him the flexibility to employ a number of approaches designed to facilitate the resolution of disputes.

Summary Jury Trial
Mr. Johnston was instrumental in developing Dallas County's procedures for non binding summary trials. This innovation arose out of a personal injury case when, at mediation, it was apparent that the parties were so far apart that the one of them had seriously miscalculated the case. At the suggestion of Mr. Johnston, he and the attorney representing the other side formulated procedures for a non-binding summary jury trial. As a result of this procedure, the parties were able to more accurately evaluate their cases which ultimately resulted in a settlement. The judge was so impressed that she asked that the attorneys reduce their procedures to writing. Today, binding and non binding jury trials are utilized as an ADR method in Dallas County as well as other venues.