In a move toward promoting accessible justice, Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, the Chief Justice of Ghana, has officially announced the observance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Week for the Legal Year Term
Scheduled from Monday, November 13th, to Friday, November 17th, 2023, this dedicated week aims to raise awareness among the public regarding the integration of ADR within the court system, emphasizing its pivotal role in seeking justice.
The focus is on enlightening individuals, particularly the marginalized, about how to effectively utilize this process for meaningful access to justice.
This year’s ADR Week unfolds under the theme, “Building the Pillars of Justice through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).” This strategic choice underscores the foundational importance of ADR in the pursuit of justice.
The statement from Chief Justice Torkornoo urges active participation and cooperation from the Bar, disputants, the media, and the general public to collectively ensure the success of this initiative during the Legal Year Term.
According to Alex Nartey, the Director of ADR, the week-long celebration offers a unique opportunity for court users with pending cases to engage in a “Mass Mediation Exercise.”
A total of 135 courts, comprising 35 Circuit Courts and 100 District Courts nationwide, will be actively involved in resolving court cases through ADR mechanisms. This inclusive approach aims to provide a swift and efficient resolution process, particularly benefiting those with limited resources.
Within the framework of the Judicial Service of Ghana, ADR, known as “Court-Connected ADR,” plays a vital role in making access to justice more accessible.
This innovative program strives to create a legal environment that is not only cost-effective but also non-adversarial, expeditious, and flexible. The primary beneficiaries of this approach are the economically disadvantaged and vulnerable members of society, aligning with the broader goal of fostering a more equitable legal system.
