Alternative Dispute Resolution

Alternative Resolution of Consumer Disputes

Alternative dispute resolution is the possibility that all consumers have at their disposal to appeal to official entities that help them in resolving or guiding a conflict. The Online Dispute Resolution website is an official website managed by the European Commission dedicated to helping consumers and traders resolve their disputes outside of court: https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/odr/main/index.cfm? event=main.home.chooseLanguage.

Alternative Consumer Dispute Resolution (known as RAL) covers mediation, conciliation and arbitration.

Independent entities, with specialized staff, impartially help the consumer and the company/professional to reach an amicable solution through mediation or conciliation.

If this agreement is not reached, you can still appeal to the arbitration court, through a simple and quick process and in most cases free of charge. The arbitration award has executive force (obligatory character), being equivalent to a decision of a court of first instance.

What are Alternative Consumer Dispute Resolution Entities?

They are mostly Consumer Conflict Arbitration Centers, which resolve disputes through mediation, conciliation and arbitration procedures, free of charge or at reduced costs. They provide free information on consumer topics.

Suggestions for Alternative Dispute Resolution Entities:

Consumer Dispute Arbitration Center of Vale do Ave/Arbitration Court

CIAB – Consumer Information, Mediation and Arbitration Center (Consumer Arbitration Court)

CIMPAS – Information, Mediation and Insurance Ombudsman Center