The Mississippi Employment Dispute Resolution Plan (DR) is a system designed to help employees and employers resolve employment disputes in a timely and cost-effective manner. This process provides an alternative to litigation, allowing both parties to avoid the expense and uncertainty associated with filing a lawsuit. The DR process is administered by the Mississippi Department of Employment Security (MODES), which provides an impartial third-party to assist in resolving disputes. The three types of Mississippi Employment Dispute Resolution Plan (DR) are mediation, arbitration, and conciliation. Mediation is a voluntary process whereby a neutral third party assists the parties in reaching a mutually satisfactory agreement. Arbitration is a quasi-judicial process whereby an arbitrator, chosen by both parties, hears the dispute and makes a binding decision. Conciliation is a voluntary process whereby a neutral third party assists the parties in identifying the issues in dispute and developing options for resolution.