LAHORE: The Alternative Dispute Resolution Ordinance 2026 has been referred to the Punjab Assembly’s Standing Committee on Home Affairs as the province moves to reduce the burden of court cases and provide speedy justice.
The governor of Punjab approved the ordinance on October 6. The proposed legislation will become law after the standing committee submits its report and the bill is passed by the assembly.
Under the proposed system, disputes can be resolved through mediation and mutual negotiations instead of lengthy court proceedings. Cases already pending in courts may also be referred to the new authority with the consent of the parties.
According to the text of the ordinance, the court will issue a final decision and decree after the dispute is resolved through the authority.
A judge nominated by the Lahore High Court or an approved mediator will provide services for dispute resolution. In cases involving women, the services of a female mediator will be preferred.
Overseas Pakistanis will be able to participate in proceedings through video links and other modern means of communication.
The authority will oversee the alternative dispute resolution system and approve relevant institutions. It will also provide the registrar of the Lahore High Court with lists of approved mediators and dispute resolution centres.
The proposed system will cover family disputes, child guardianship and custody matters, enforcement of commercial agreements, specific performance claims, compensation, recovery of movable property or its value, partition of jointly owned immovable property, accounts and inheritance rights.
Declaration, succession, professional negligence and consumer disputes will also fall within its scope.
The court will give the parties an opportunity to mutually select an approved mediator or centre. If they fail to agree, the court may select one from the approved list.
Parties will be allowed to participate in proceedings themselves, through representatives or through their lawyers. Fees and expenses will be shared by mutual agreement, while all proceedings and discussions during the alternative dispute resolution process will remain confidential.
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