(a) Purpose. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) refers to the various processes and techniques used for resolving disputes without the necessity of further litigation or a hearing.

(b) Process. Participation in an ADR process is entirely voluntary. A party cannot be forced to agree to a resolution of the dispute by participating in an ADR process, and if the parties do not agree to participate or cannot reach agreement through the ADR process, the proceeding will be adjudicated by the ALJ.

(c) Availability. At any time during the pendency of a proceeding, a party may file a request to use an ADR process or the ALJ may notify the parties that the matter has been identified as a candidate for ADR. The ALJ may also issue a notice describing the ADR processes used by DCHD and directing the parties to communicate in writing, or verbally during a prehearing status conference, whether they are willing to participate in an ADR process. The written ADR procedures used by DCHD can be made available to the parties on request.