What is neutral assessment, as a method of dispute resolution?

Answer 1

Also sometimes called non-binding arbitration.

It's a process where an expert -- either legal or based on the subject matter -- listens to the evidence and renders a professional opinion on the likely outcome. The neutral then often gives a recommendation on a settlement.

The parties can then follow that recommendation, or not. But it has no binding effect as a matter of law. Unlike binding arbitration, which is similar in process, different in outcome.

Answer 2

Having a "neutral" - some outside professional, typically a mediator, assess the facts of the dispute and the law that would be applied to those facts, in order to give the parties a non-biased analysis. Once the parties have this, the theory goes, they will have a view of how a court might see their case, and reach a quick settlement.

Sometimes it works.

Answer 3

Outside party comes in and hears both sides to help make resolution

Answer 4

It's what courts are based on: getting an impartial observer to look at the dispute.