The worldwide pandemic has slowed many commercial activities and brought others to a halt. Unfortunately, the sources and causes of disputes and conflict continue. In some sectors, the coronavirus and efforts to contain its spread have led to new and immediate conflicts. Supply chains are being disrupted. Managing workforces becomes more difficult while adhering to social distancing guidelines. Parties everywhere are re-reading their contracts to see if there is a force majeure provision that can be invoked. In many places, the courts are closed or restricted.
As businesses suffer through this crisis, it is more important than ever that disputes get resolved in a timely and efficient way. And there is a time-tested solution to this problem: mediation. With a new twist, thanks to social distancing.
