Alternative Dispute Resolution Act 1998: Federal legislation that provides the framework for ADR programs in federal district courts

Federal Arbitration Act: Federal law governing arbitration procedures and enforcement of arbitration agreements in the United States

Uniform Mediation Act: Model law adopted by several states that provides consistency in mediation procedures and confidentiality protections

Federal Rules of Evidence: Rules governing confidentiality and admissibility of evidence in federal courts, particularly relevant for mediation communications

State Mediation Statutes: State-specific laws governing mediation procedures, requirements, and enforceability within each jurisdiction

State Contract Laws: General contract principles and requirements under state law that affect the validity and enforceability of settlement agreements

State ADR Rules: Specific alternative dispute resolution rules and procedures established by individual states

State Court Rules: Procedural requirements established by state courts for mediation and settlement agreements

Statute of Limitations: Time limits for bringing legal actions that may affect the terms of the settlement agreement

Confidentiality Laws: Federal and state laws governing the confidentiality of mediation communications and settlement terms

Capacity Requirements: Legal requirements regarding parties' mental and legal capacity to enter into binding agreements

Consideration Doctrine: Legal principle requiring exchange of value for contract validity

Voluntary Agreement Rules: Legal requirements ensuring settlement agreements are entered into voluntarily and without coercion

Mediator Ethics Rules: Professional standards and ethical requirements governing mediator conduct

State Bar Guidelines: Professional rules and guidelines established by state bar associations for attorneys involved in mediation

Court-Annexed Mediation Rules: Specific requirements for mediations connected to court proceedings or court-ordered mediation programs