Which method is NOT considered part of Alternative Dispute Resolution?

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) encompasses various methods utilized to resolve disputes without resorting to traditional litigation. Among the listed methods, litigation is fundamentally different because it involves taking a dispute to court, where a judge or jury renders a decision based on the law. This process can be lengthy, formal, and public, contrasting sharply with ADR methods, which prioritize negotiation and cooperation outside the courtroom.

Mediation, appraisal, and negotiation are all considered forms of ADR. Mediation allows a neutral third party to facilitate a conversation between disputing parties to help them reach a resolution. Appraisal, often used in insurance disputes, involves the evaluation of loss by independent appraisers. Negotiation is a direct dialogue between parties aimed at reaching a mutual agreement. These methods emphasize voluntary resolution and maintain a level of confidentiality, which are hallmarks of ADR approaches. Therefore, since litigation does not align with the principles of ADR, it is correctly identified as the method that is not part of this category.