ADRA was formed in 1987. Its Constitution defines "Alternative Dispute Resolution" (ADR) as "dispute resolution processes: which encourage disputants to reach their own solution, and in which the primary role of the third party neutral is to facilitate the disputants to do so".

ADRA is run by a Board of Management elected at each Annual General Meeting. The Board organises conferences, seminars and workshops, makes representations and submissions on behalf of members, prepares discussion papers and policy documents and a range of other activities.

ADRA's objectives include:

• promoting alternative dispute resolution;
• encouraging exchange of ideas;
• providing information;
• developing and promoting national standards