Alternative dispute resolution uses a wide variety of processes that may be informal or formal and that are intended to achieve conflict resolution through agreement of the parties to the conflict. Those processes include non-binding arbitration, collaborative problem-solving, conciliation, consensus building, and mediation, and may consist of a combination of two or more of those or other dispute resolution processes. An alternative dispute resolution process is conducted by an individual who is referred to as an impartial third party.
43 Tex. Admin. Code § 1.103