John B Horn

US Patent:

20010037204, Nov 1, 2001

Filed:

Jan 8, 2001

Appl. No.:

09/756408

Inventors:

John Horn - Sherman Oaks CA, US
Vanessa Chang - Los Angeles CA, US
Roland Schoettler - Los Angeles CA, US

International Classification:

G06F017/60

US Classification:

705/001000

Abstract:

One or more embodiments of the invention are directed to an on line system that facilitates the confidential and secure exchange of offers and demands between parties to a dispute. The exchange can take place directly between a claimant and a respondent or their representatives without the involvement of third parties, such as mediators or arbitrators. The system is designed to minimize overhead costs by automatically reminding the parties of a pending settlement offer at selected time intervals, thereby eliminating the need for constant follow up correspondence and telephone calls. System features encourage settlement of disputes by providing a user-friendly environment and an easily accessible medium for exchange of information related to a dispute. Parties are invited to submit settlement offers in ranges including minimum and maximum dollar amounts for which they are willing to settle the case. Based upon the submitted offers the system determines a settlement amount that fits within the proposed ranges. If no settlement is reached the parties are invited to try again.