How to settle ones lawsuit without going to court is the message retired former Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals of Georgia, Braswell D. Deen, Jr. tells in his book Deen's List: ABC'S On ADR. The author is a veteran of a law career of over 65 years. Deen relates in a poignant manner the early historical mediation methodology used in Georgia and reviews his 13 years as a mediator in assisting parties in the settling their controversy's and cases. Providing pithy pronouncements to professionals, parties, persons, practioners and participants in mediation practice is one of the highlights of his book. Arbitrators review the facts and law in a case and many times render a decision within 72 hours. Most parties promptly at the outset waive any right to an appeal. Deen discusses needed professionalism, ethics, etiquette, and effectiveness in ADR and in the law generally. The author focuses on the legal history of appellate and ADR arguments as well as effective legal writing of briefs in arbitration cases. Deen adds historical notes such as "the last duel fought in Georgia." He cites many writings and views of Georgia Judges in handling lawsuits. He notes one judge was called "Two Gun Charlie Worrill" and tells the true story that Lawyers were once actually banned from the State of Georgia. He quotes Shakespeare where it was said "let's kill all the lawyers." The use and distinction of Garbled Verbage and Verbal Garbage was used by some judges in cases, is highlighted in his book. Deen injects some of his noted alliterative humor in his discussions and suggestions of how cases may be concluded promptly and fairly, rather than spending years in courtrooms, with sometimes many subsequent appeals.
