2026 Nevada Revised StatutesChapter 38 – Mediation And ArbitrationNRS 38.250 Use of other alternative methods of resolving disputes; adoption of rules by Supreme Court.

Statutory Text

1.  The Supreme Court may authorize the use of settlement conferences and other alternative methods of resolving disputes, including, without limitation, mediation and a short trial, that are available in the county in which a district court is located:

(a) In lieu of submitting an action to nonbinding arbitration pursuant to NRS 38.250; or

(b) During or following such nonbinding arbitration if the parties agree that the use of any such alternative methods of resolving disputes would assist in the resolution of the dispute.

2.  If the Supreme Court authorizes the use of an alternative method of resolving disputes pursuant to subsection 1, the Supreme Court shall adopt rules and procedures to govern the use of any such method.

3.  As used in this section, “short trial” has the meaning ascribed to it in NRS 38.250.

(Added to NRS by 1991, 1344; A 1999, 1380; 2005, 393)

NV Rev Stat § 38.258 – Last Verified February 2026

Plain English Explanation

Sometimes going through a full arbitration process is not the only option when people have a legal dispute in Nevada. Under NRS 38.258, the Nevada Supreme Court has the power to allow courts to use other ways of settling disagreements instead of, or alongside, the standard nonbinding arbitration process.

These alternatives can include settlement conferences, mediation, or something called a “short trial.” A short trial is a faster, more streamlined version of a traditional trial. The exact definition of a short trial comes from NRS 38.250. These options are available depending on which county the district court is in.

There are two situations where these alternatives can come into play. First, they can be used instead of going through nonbinding arbitration at all. Second, they can be used during or after an arbitration has already started, but only if both sides agree that trying one of these other methods would actually help them work things out.

The Nevada Supreme Court does not just allow these alternatives and walk away. If it decides to authorize one of these methods, it is also required to create rules and procedures that explain exactly how that method will work. This keeps everything organized and fair for everyone involved.

The bottom line is that Nevada gives courts and the people involved in disputes some flexibility. Rather than being locked into one process, there are multiple paths available to help resolve legal conflicts more efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions About NRS 38.258

What is NRS 38.258 in Nevada?

NRS 38.258 is a Nevada law that gives the Nevada Supreme Court the authority to allow courts to use alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation, settlement conferences, and short trials. These options can be used instead of or alongside the standard nonbinding arbitration process when parties are trying to resolve a legal dispute.

What is a short trial under Nevada law?

A short trial is a faster and simpler version of a traditional courtroom trial. It is designed to help resolve disputes more quickly than going through a full trial. The official legal definition of a short trial in Nevada comes from NRS 38.250.

Can both parties choose how their dispute gets resolved in Nevada?

In some cases, yes. If both sides of a dispute agree that an alternative method like mediation would help them reach a resolution, they can use that method during or even after a nonbinding arbitration process has already begun. However, both parties have to be on board with the decision.

Does the Nevada Supreme Court have to create rules for alternative dispute resolution?

Yes. Any time the Nevada Supreme Court authorizes the use of an alternative dispute resolution method under this statute, it is legally required to establish rules and procedures that govern how that method is used. This ensures the process is consistent and fair across the courts.

What is the difference between mediation and arbitration in Nevada?

Mediation involves a neutral third party helping both sides communicate and reach a voluntary agreement. Arbitration involves a neutral third party actually hearing both sides and making a decision. Nonbinding arbitration means the decision is not automatically final and the parties can still take the matter to court if they disagree with the outcome.

If you are facing a legal dispute in Nevada and want to understand which resolution method may apply to your situation, consulting with a licensed Nevada attorney can help you make sense of your options under NRS 38.258. An attorney can walk you through the process and help you determine the most effective path forward for your specific case.