A New Path Forward in Dispute Resolution: Rich Lee’s Innovative Journey, The Litigator’s Edge

In an episode of The Litigator’s Edge, Rich Lee, Founder & Executive Chairman of New Era ADR, discusses the limitations of traditional litigation and the need for a more efficient, business-aligned approach to resolving disputes.

Drawing on his experience as a former patent attorney and two-time General Counsel, Rich explains how many common business disputes, including unpaid invoices, employment claims, and contract disagreements, fall into a gap where litigation is technically available but economically impractical. As a result, companies often choose not to pursue valid claims, leading to lost revenue and unresolved risk.

The conversation highlights how New Era was designed to address this challenge through a digital-first arbitration model that resolves disputes in approximately 100 days on a flat-fee basis. Rich also discusses how traditional discovery practices contribute to unnecessary costs and delays, and how streamlined procedures, supported by technology and AI, can improve both efficiency and the user experience.

The episode underscores a broader shift in how companies approach dispute resolution, moving from a purely legal function to a strategic tool for managing financial and operational risk.

Check out the episode here or on your favorite podcast platform.