ONLINE DISPUTE RESOLUTION (ODR) IN PAKISTAN
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Abstract
In Corona Pandemic hit world where online transactions have boomed drastically at one hand, the legal complexities have also amplified on the other. Normally alternate dispute resolutions (ADR) fail in settling high value commercial claims. Such claims finally end up in courts, taking years in adjudication, causing the loss of millions to the parties. In these circumstances, in reality, courts neither have time nor the resources to adjudicate upon the dispute involving lower value.Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) is a court-annexed public facing digital space in which parties can convene to resolve their disputes. Many multinational online venders are currently using ODR to make their trading activity more efficient and independent from the conventional court system. As for as Pakistan is concerned, the concept of online trade is comparatively new, therefore, not supported by substantial legislation. Development on effective legal mechanism annexed with online dispute resolution algorithm is a dire need of the hour.
This paper examines the hurdles faced by ODR in Pakistan, discusses its future and makes some recommendations for the implementation of an advanced technological system for redressal of consumer grievances regarding small claim cases.
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